Myriad cases have come before the courts concerning not just counselling or civil partnerships but such issues as the placing ofchildren for adoption by same-sex parents and the turning away of gay couples from guesthouses.
"California's interests in protecting all of its children are best served by allowing these same-sex couples to enjoy thesame benefits of marriage as opposite-sex couples, " state Attorney General Kamala Harris said ofthe estimated 50, 000 youngsters being raised by gay and lesbian couples in the state.
Mr Wilson said parents and teachers used practical examples and experience to help children cope with aggression or lack of confidence, and thesame approach should be used in sex education.