State Laws
Whether you’re lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender or straight-supportive, your state’s laws probably have a major impact on your life. State laws govern everything from the legal status of relationships between same-sex partners to the ability of transgender people to list their correct gender identity on their birth certificates. The Human Rights Campaign works with state leaders to advance the rights of LGBT people across the nation, from Alabama to Wyoming.
Here you can learn about the current laws affecting LGBT issues in your state, as well as state legislation — upcoming bills that could change the way you live. You can also learn more about what’s going on in your state and find out about local news, elections and volunteer opportunities.
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State Laws can be filtered by state or you can view the full list of Laws by selecting "All State Laws."
Maine Custody and Visitation Law
Maine courts typically will not consider a parent’s sexual orientation in custody and visitation determinations unless it is shown to adversely affect or harm the children. There are no published cases dealing with transgender parents. Courts will allow a former same-sex partner (with no legal or biological relationship to the children) to petition for visitation.
Maine Donor Insemination Law
There is no provision on donor insemination in Maine state law, but it appears to be permitted for unmarried women.
Maine Hate Crimes Law
State law covers hate crimes based on sexual orientation but not gender identity.
Maine Healthcare Laws
State healthcare laws relating to the LGBT community in the areas of medical decision making and hospital visitation.
Maine Marriage/Relationship Recognition Law
The Maine domestic partner law allows same-sex couples the opportunity to formalize relationships.
Maine Non-Discrimination Law
Maine law protects against discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity.
Maine School Laws
Maine law does not address school issues relating to sexual orientation or gender identity.
Maine Sodomy Law
The Maine sodomy law was repealed in 1976.
Maine Surrogacy Law
It is unclear how Maine law would treat a surrogacy agreement that includes lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender (LGBT) individuals because there are no statutory provisions or published cases dealing with the issue of surrogacy.
