Update: Nevada passes DP law
Sunday, May 31st, 2009Just heard that both houses of the Nevada legislature have voted to override Governor Gibbons’ veto.
Seriously, congrats to all my friends in Nevada, and especially to Senator David Parks, who I had the privilege of working with in Equal Rights Nevada back in 2000-2003. I know this has been a long, difficult fight since the passage of Question 2 in 2000 and 2002.
Nevada’s Domestic Partnership Bill will become law October 1. I’m sure Question 2-based legal challenges are on the way, but I think it’ll hold.
Isn’t this awesome! I read the whole bill and there really is no difference with this and marriage other than the words “partnership” and “marriage”.
One Q though Jere that I couldn’t find – if Kelli and I did register……how would this affect taxes? Would I still be able to file as single head of household? And also could they come after my tax refund for her student loan? (they take hers each year)
Jere Keys Reply:
June 1st, 2009 at 12:45 am
Well, I’m not sure if I’m in a position to offer tax advice, but my general impression is that until the federal government recognizes your relationship, its unlikely to have any impact on your taxes. Especially since Nevada doesn’t have a personal income tax. So, if you were to register, it probably won’t affect your federal taxes for a while.
However, if something were to happen where the Defense of Marriage Act were to get repealed and civil unions/marriages/domestic partnerships were recognized at the Federal level (either through legislative action of one of the various court cases making its way through the system), you might find yourselves responsible for each others’ debts and responsibilities.
If you’re unsure, talk to lawyer before signing up. Actually, you should probably do that anyway (as I would advise any straight couple with complicated financial burdens and family responsibilities who are considering marriage).