Gay Couples Back DOMA Repeal; Feinstein Calls Marriage Law 'Unconstitutional'

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Byline: Cheryl Wetzstein, THE WASHINGTON TIMES

A 1996 federal marriage law is unconstitutional and should be repealed, Sen. Dianne Feinstein told a news conference that featured gay couples who have insurance, visa and legal problems because of the law.

The Senate Judiciary Committee is scheduled to hold a hearing Wednesday on a bill that would repeal the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) and ensure respect for state regulation of marriage.

As one of 14 senators who voted against DOMA in 1996, I thought even then, this is unconstitutional and wrong, Mrs. Feinstein, California Democrat, said Tuesday at the National Press Club.

In March, Mrs. Feinstein …