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.
Select a State
State Laws can be filtered by state or you can view the full list of Laws by selecting "All State Laws."
Massachusetts Adoption Law
Massachusetts Birth Certificate Law: Gender Identity Issues
Massachusetts permits post-operative transsexuals to amend their sex on their birth certificates.
Massachusetts Custody and Visitation Law
Massachusetts 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 custody and visitation
Massachusetts Donor Insemination Law
Massachusetts law allows married couples to undergo donor insemination. There is no state provision on donor insemination performed on unmarried women.
Massachusetts Hate Crimes Law
State law covers hate crimes based on sexual orientation but not gender identity.
Massachusetts Healthcare Laws
State healthcare laws relating to the LGBT community in the areas of medical decision making and hospital visitation.
Massachusetts Marriage/Relationship Recognition Law
On May 17, 2004, marriage licenses began to be issued to same-sex couples in Massachusetts.
Massachusetts Non-Discrimination Law
Massachusetts law protects against discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity.
Massachusetts School Laws
Massachusetts law addresses school issues relating to sexual orientation but does not explicity address issues relating to gender identity.
Massachusetts Sodomy Law
The Massachusetts sodomy law was struck down in 2002.
