<s>[INST] In Defense of the Defense of Marriage Act
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In the wake of the landmark <i>Obergefell v. Hodges</i> decision by the US Supreme Court in 2015, which legalized same-sex marriage nationwide, many have argued that the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) of 1996 is outdated and should be repealed. However, this paper will argue that DOMA remains a crucial piece of legislation that protects the traditional definition of marriage and provides essential benefits to marriage-based policyholders.

### DOMA's Definition of Marriage

DOMA defines marriage as a union between one man and one woman. This traditional definition of marriage has been the cornerstone of Western society for centuries and is rooted in the biological and social realities of human existence. The definition provided by DOMA is not discriminatory, but rather a reflection of the natural order of human relationships.

### DOMA's Benefits to Marriage-Based Policyholders

DOMA provides essential benefits to marriage-based policyholders, including:

*   **Federal Recognition**: DOMA allows the federal government to recognize marriage-based policies, providing a uniform standard for policies across the country.
*   **Tax Benefits**: DOMA allows married couples to file joint tax returns, reducing their tax liability and providing a financial incentive for marriage.
*   **Immigration Benefits**: DOMA allows US citizens to sponsor their spouses for immigration, promoting family unity and allowing spouses to build a life together in the United States.
*   **Social Security Benefits**: DOMA allows married couples to claim social security benefits based on their spouse's earnings, providing a financial safety net in retirement.

### DOMA's Impact on Traditional Marriage

While some argue that DOMA is discriminatory towards same-sex couples, this paper will argue that DOMA is necessary to protect the traditional definition of marriage. Without DOMA, the traditional definition of marriage would be eroded, and the benefits provided to marriage-based policyholders would be compromised.

### DOMA's Relevance in the Post-Obergefell Era

Although <i>Obergefell v. Hodges</i> has legalized same-sex marriage nationwide, DOMA remains relevant in the post-<i>Obergefell</i> era. DOMA's definition of marriage and benefits to marriage-based policyholders are still essential for promoting the traditional definition of marriage and providing essential benefits to policyholders.

### Conclusion

In conclusion, DOMA remains a crucial piece of legislation that protects the traditional definition of marriage and provides essential benefits to marriage-based policyholders. While some may argue that DOMA is outdated and should be repealed, this paper has argued that DOMA is necessary to promote the traditional definition of marriage and provide essential benefits to policyholders. As the US continues to evolve and change, DOMA remains a vital piece of legislation that should be preserved and protected.

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The provided text presents a defense of the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) of 1996. The argument is centered around the idea that DOMA protects the traditional definition of marriage and provides essential benefits to marriage-based policyholders. However, after <i>Obergefell v. Hodges</i> decision in 2015, which legalized same-sex marriage nationwide, how relevant and justified is the author's defense of DOMA?[/INST]