Connecticut

Connecticut is a state located in the New England region of the northeastern United States of America. Portions of southwestern Connecticut are also considered part of the New York metropolitan area. Called the "Constitution State," Connecticut has a long history dating from the early colonial times, and was influential in the development of early American government.

The age of consent is 16 for sexual encounter (and 15 for sexual contact). Between 13 and 16, it is a positive defense against the assault, in case of a sexual encounter, if the age difference is less than 2 years. But if the actor of abuse has authority or influence (and is above 20), the consent age is 18. For most offenses, there is a worse felony or misdemeanor classification if the minor is under 16.

On October 10, 2008, the Supreme Court of Connecticut, in Kerrigan v. Commissioner of Public Health, ruled that failing to give same-sex couples the full rights, responsibilities and name of marriage violated the equal protection clause of the state constitution, and ordered same-sex marriage legalized.