I just got back from the State House.
The Maine Senate passed the marriage equality bill by a vote of 20-15. It then defeated an amendment to send the issue directly to the voters as a referendum by a vote of 13-22.
The bill will move to the house for a vote next Tuesday, where it's expected to pass without amendment.
Before today's proceedings, no one knew for sure how the vote would turn out in the Senate, though. Even after the Senate voted to pass the measure, no one was sure how the vote on the amendment would pan out. After the amendment failed, the Senate voted again and the bill passed 21-14.
Today's outcome was the biggest first step toward marriage equality in Maine.
The governor hasn't stated whether he will sign or veto the bill or let it become law without his signature. I guess I'm going to have to invite him and his wife down the road to our house for a gourmet dinner and talk about love, commitment, and civil rights.
The way to a man's heart is always through his stomach.
The Maine Senate passed the marriage equality bill by a vote of 20-15. It then defeated an amendment to send the issue directly to the voters as a referendum by a vote of 13-22.
The bill will move to the house for a vote next Tuesday, where it's expected to pass without amendment.
Before today's proceedings, no one knew for sure how the vote would turn out in the Senate, though. Even after the Senate voted to pass the measure, no one was sure how the vote on the amendment would pan out. After the amendment failed, the Senate voted again and the bill passed 21-14.
Today's outcome was the biggest first step toward marriage equality in Maine.
The governor hasn't stated whether he will sign or veto the bill or let it become law without his signature. I guess I'm going to have to invite him and his wife down the road to our house for a gourmet dinner and talk about love, commitment, and civil rights.
The way to a man's heart is always through his stomach.
3 comments:
Wow, Craig, this is good news and yes, you should invite the Gov and wife to break bread and discuss the topic at hand. I have less confidence (in his own convictions) after working on the Real Id and learning that he buckled under the pressure, same goes with Health Care. But, he means well, I see the pain and concern in his face.
Great reporting on the day
I cannot help but think of Harvey Milk, and so many I name in my heart only, those who have gone on, never getting to see this day.
Forget the closet
It is time to ring the church bells
and it was good
::
you should celebrate this success
we are with you both in spirit
::
Craig, I hope this good news continues to its natural, ultimate conclusion and that the bill passes with or without the governor's signature (one would hope he would sign on). Oh yes, the way to a man's heart IS through his stomach. Cook it up Craig!
There were lots of tears on Thursday.
I'm going back on Tuesday for the house vote.
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