Social Issues

The Supreme Court issued a pair of decisions this week with major consequences for efforts to legalize or bar same-sex marriage. One ruling opened the way for California to become the 13th state to allow same-sex marriage; the other struck down part of the federal Defense of Marriage Act and directed the government to recognize legally married same-sex couples.
Marijuana goes mainstream
In just a few short years, public opinion on marijuana has moved so dramatically toward general acceptance that even those who champion legalization are surprised at how quickly attitudes are changing and states are moving to approve the drug -- for medical use and just for fun.
DOMA provision unconstitutional, Prop. 8 appeal dismissed by Supreme Court
In a major victory for gay rights, the Supreme Court on Wednesday struck down a provision of a federal law denying federal benefits to married gay couples and cleared the way for the resumption of same-sex marriage in California.
Supreme Court voids key part of Voting Rights Act
The justices said in 5-4 ruling Tuesday that the law Congress most recently renewed in 2006 relies on 40-year-old data that doesn't reflect racial progress and changes in U.S. society.
What Supreme Court's same-sex marriages ruling means for Minnesota
The Supreme Court on Wednesday struck down a provision of a federal law denying federal benefits to married gay couples and cleared the way for the resumption of same-sex marriage in California.
The announcement came days after the Food Network said it would not renew the celebrity cook's contract in the wake of revelations that she used racial slurs in the past.
The Annie E. Casey Foundation analyzed federal data on economic well-being, education, health and family & community. It found New Hampshire ranked first, and New Mexico ranked last.
States fight discrimination toward gay foster kids
Discrimination against gay and lesbian youths in foster care is prevalent enough around the country that federal health officials sent a letter in 2011 encouraging states to develop training for caseworkers and foster parents on the issue. Advocates in a handful of states have increased efforts to train caseworkers, recruit foster parents and assign mentors.