Murray, Baldwin, Kind Introduce Bill to Ensure All Same-Sex Spouses Have Access to Benefits They Have Earned

Today, U.S. Senators Patty Murray (D-WA) and Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), along with Representative Ron Kind (D-WI) introduced the Social Security and Marriage Equality (SAME) Act of 2015 to ensure all same-sex spouses receive equal treatment under the Social Security Act when applying for Social Security benefits, regardless of where they live. Eligibility for spousal benefits provided under the Social Security Act is determined by a place of residence standard. This standard has resulted in applications for Social Security benefits for legally married same-sex spouses living in states that do not recognize same-sex marriagenot being approved. The SAME Act provides a roadmap to ensure all legally married couples have equal access to the benefits they have earned.

"All legally married same-sex couples deserve equal treatment under the law, regardless of their zip code," said Senator Patty Murray."Where you live should not determine whether your family is economically secure following the death of a spouse, and it shouldn't prevent your family from receiving the benefits you have earned. The SAME Act would help ensure equality under federal law does not end at state lines."

"For the last six months, all Wisconsinites have fully enjoyed the benefit of marriage equality. Unfortunately legally married same-sex couples in Wisconsin face uncertainty if moving to a state where their marriage is not recognized," said Senator Tammy Baldwin. "The SAME Act will provide fairness and equality for legally married same-sex couples under the Social Security Act, regardless of where they live. While I am hopeful the Supreme Court will soon remove the necessity of such measures, I am proud to join this effort to build on our nation's founding belief that all Americans are created free and equal under the law."

"No matter where in America a married couple decides to live, they should take comfort in knowing that their union will be treated equally under the law," said Rep. Ron Kind. "Social Security spousal benefits offer economic security and peace of mind. Every married couple who contributes to the social security system should enjoy the same benefits. This is about basic fairness and I'm proud to help lead this bipartisan effort to ensure equality for every American citizen."

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