Support for Addressing the Effects of Public Policy on Same-Gender Couples and Their Children

To the Editor.—The special article “The Effects of Marriage, Civil Union, and Domestic Partnership Laws on the Health and Well-being of Children,”1 published in Pediatrics, is an excellent and important step forward in the publication of unbiased, scientifically sound information on a subject that is often poorly and emotionally misrepresented. The authors of the article presented a thorough, clear, and evidence-based review of the relevant public policy, as well as psychosocial and developmental considerations, and their impact on children. Their conclusions were based on this comprehensive and logical review and reflected the commitment of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) to the “attainment of optimal physical, mental, and social health and well-being for all infants, children, adolescents, and young adults.”2The importance of this article cannot be ignored. As pediatric practitioners at the intersection of 2 states and the District of Columbia, our patients have different legal rights depending on which state they live in. As a result, we have seen the dramatic impact that legislation can have on the lives of children of same-gender parents. We have seen children negatively impacted and families disrupted because one or both parents were denied legal rights. In contrast, we have seen children continue to thrive in loving homes because the rights of both parents were protected under the law. It is clear to us that our role is to care for and support all children and to work to ensure that every child is able to be cared for by loving parents and has access to a comprehensive medical home. Too often, science takes a backseat to political considerations. This is not acceptable, especially when the health and well-being of children and their families are at stake. In publishing this article, Pediatrics has taken an important step in promoting evidence-based policy.As pediatricians and active members of the AAP, we are proud to see Pediatrics again promote and reaffirm the health of all children regardless of their background or family circumstances. Every child deserves the same protections and access to high-quality health care. Although a great many health disparities still unfortunately exist, we remain confident in the AAP's dedication to eliminating these disparities. We applaud the authors of this article and the wisdom and commitment of the AAP in assuring its widespread distribution through publication in Pediatrics.