Judge backs tax exemption for Alaska same-sex couples

[Blue_In_AK]

Source: Anchorage Daily News

An Anchorage judge has ruled that same-sex couples in Alaska qualify for the same exemptions on local property taxes as those that apply to married couples.

At issue are a state law and regulations that mandate local governments offer property tax exemptions for seniors 65 years old and up, and for disabled veterans.

<snip>

Superior Court Judge Frank Pfiffner ruled on Friday that married couples and same-sex domestic partners are "similarly situated," and due equal protection under the state constitution. That means equal tax exemptions, he said.

Three Alaska same-sex couples brought the suit, saying they had been denied equal tax benefits. They are represented by the ACLU of Alaska and the national American Civil Liberties Union



Read more: http://www.adn.com/2011/09/19/2077149/judge-backs-tax-exemption-for.html#disqus_thread

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It's a small step, but a start.

[EFerrari]

1. Kick

[Arctic Dave]

2. The fundie heads are exploding in the comments section.

Amazing, I didn't realize how many legal experts post on a message board. LOL

[Blue_In_AK]

3. I know.

You have to be really patient with those people. I especially liked the ones that said the judge was "making law" and not following the Constitution. :rofl:

I would suggest that these folks actually READ Alaska's very progressive constitution. They might get an education.