California
doctors praised for supporting Civil Marriage Protection Act

The California branch of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists is being praised by the Gay and Lesbian Medical Association and Equality California for its decision to support the Religious Freedom and Civil Marriage Protection Act. The bill, AB 43, authored by Assemblyman Mark Leno of San Francisco, would extend marriage rights to same-sex couples in California. ACOG submitted a letter showing its support of the bill to the California assembly judiciary committee on March 28. The group represents more than 5,000 physicians .

"Marriage for same-sex couples could also lead to improved maternity care, improved social and legal supports for families, and improved health of children," said Dr. Kate O'Hanlan, past president of GLMA. "AB 43 is important not only for the health of those in same-sex relationships but also for a large and growing number of children that are being raised in households by same-sex parents."

Other state and national health professional societies including the American Psychiatric Association and the American Psychological Association have also shown support.

The assembly judiciary committee will consider the bill on April 10. (The Advocate)