Domestic Partnerships in Vermont: Legal Since 2000, Equal to Marriage

Yes. Vermont legalized domestic partnerships in 2000 — the first U.S. state to do so legislatively (not by court order). The law grants same-sex and opposite-sex couples nearly all state-level rights of marriage.

Key Provisions

• Eligibility: Any two adults (18+), not married/partnered, not closely related
• Registration: Town/city clerk; $50 fee; no ceremony required
• Rights: Hospital visitation, medical decisions, inheritance (intestate), state tax filing jointly, state employee benefits, property protections, wrongful death claims
• Dissolution: Family court process mirroring divorce

Marriage Equality Context

• 2000: Civil unions (not "domestic partnerships" — distinct Vermont term)
• 2009: Same-sex marriage legalized (legislative override of veto)
• 2009: Civil unions closed to new entrants; existing unchanged
• 2013: DOMA struck down → federal recognition for VT marriages (not civil unions)

Current Status

• New domestic partnerships: Not available (replaced by marriage for all)
• Existing civil unions: Still valid; can convert to marriage by license
• Reciprocity: Some states recognize VT civil unions; most don't

Practical Advice

For couples seeking legal protection in VT today: marry. For existing civil union holders: consult attorney on conversion (simplifies federal benefits, portability). Vermont's 2000 law was a historic breakthrough — but marriage equality superseded it.