[Jim Noble]

Maybe it’s better it simply recognizes contracts between couples (call them whatever you like), and is available to intervene in the event of a dispute over assets or custody

Where in the 50 states and DC does the government not recognize and stand ready to enforce such contracts?

Nowhere, that's where.

[TraditionalistMommy]

But it also recognizes marriage, civil unions, domestic partnerships, etc. Lots of unnecessary and troublesome distinctions.