NEW : Suit addresses section of law that prevents Social Security benefits . The United States of America and several federal agencies are named as defendants . US : Plaintiffs include surviving spouse of former U.S. congressman . Group says federal government denies same - sex marriage benefits , protections . Defense of Marriage Act bars federal recognition of same - sex marriage .
NEW : Suit addresses section of law that prevents Social Security benefits . US : Plaintiffs include surviving spouse of former U.S. congressman . Group says federal government denies same - sex marriage benefits , protections . Defense of Marriage Act bars federal recognition of same - sex marriage .