Maryland, Washington, New Jersey begin to debate gay marriage
Mon. January 23, 2012 9:50 AM by Carlos Santoscoy
Gay marriage is on the agenda Monday in three states: Maryland, Washington and New Jersey.
In Maryland, Governor Martin O'Malley is expected to introduce his proposed legislation for this year's General Assembly, which should include the gay marriage bill he pledged to back last spring.
Senate President Thomas V. Mike Miller, who does not support the measure, has said the Senate will take up the issue before the House.
A similar effort last year cleared the Senate before sinking in the House.
Analysts this year say they expect a quick OK in the Senate but capturing the 141-member House remains in doubt for supporters.
Committees in Washington and New Jersey will begin holding public hearings on gay marriage bills which were filed earlier this month.
Democratic leaders in Trenton are looking for veto-proof majorities in the House and Senate to blunt an expected veto from Republican Governor Chris Christie.
However, Christie has yet to say what he would do if lawmakers approve the marriage equality bill.
A bill filed in Washington has the backing of Democratic Governor Chris Gregoire. Strong support in the House leaves little doubt the bill will clear the chamber. However, the measure remains 1 vote short in the Senate, where 2 Republican senators have voiced their support. Five senators remain undecided.
In Maryland, Governor Martin O'Malley is expected to introduce his proposed legislation for this year's General Assembly, which should include the gay marriage bill he pledged to back last spring.
Senate President Thomas V. Mike Miller, who does not support the measure, has said the Senate will take up the issue before the House.
A similar effort last year cleared the Senate before sinking in the House.
Analysts this year say they expect a quick OK in the Senate but capturing the 141-member House remains in doubt for supporters.
Committees in Washington and New Jersey will begin holding public hearings on gay marriage bills which were filed earlier this month.
Democratic leaders in Trenton are looking for veto-proof majorities in the House and Senate to blunt an expected veto from Republican Governor Chris Christie.
However, Christie has yet to say what he would do if lawmakers approve the marriage equality bill.
A bill filed in Washington has the backing of Democratic Governor Chris Gregoire. Strong support in the House leaves little doubt the bill will clear the chamber. However, the measure remains 1 vote short in the Senate, where 2 Republican senators have voiced their support. Five senators remain undecided.
Article provided in partnership with On Top Magazine