The U.S. Justice Department is expanding federal recognition of same sex marriages.<br /> <br />Attorney General Eric Holder said the Justice Department will strive to ensure that same-sex marriages get the same rights, protections, and privileges as heterosexual unions in every federal courthouse.<br /> <br />(SOUNDBITE) (English) UNITED STATES ATTORNEY GENERAL ERIC HOLDER SAYING:<br /> <br />"On Monday I will issue a new policy memorandum that will for the first time in history formally instruct all Justice Department employees to give lawful same-sex marriages full and equal recognition to the greatest extent possible under the law."<br /> <br />The policy change also includes the handling of bankruptcy proceedings and visitation rights at federal prisons.<br /> <br />Gay marriage is legal in 17 U.S. states and the District of Columbia.<br /> <br />The change will apply to same-sex couples residing even in states where these marriages are not recognised.<br /> <br />The new policy follows a U.S. Supreme Court decision last
