Court to rule on Defense of Marriage Act ( 1990 ) It defines marriage as between one man , one woman . The larger debate over DOMA 's intent and impact 17 years after passage has driven a wedge between the executive and legislative branches . Same - sex couples not able to receive federal benefits for married . Debate is over role of federal government in the issue .
Court to rule on Defense of Marriage Act ( 1990 ) It defines marriage as between one man , one woman . Same - sex couples not able to receive federal benefits for married . Debate is over role of federal government in the issue .