WASHINGTON — After an emotional debate, the D.C. Council gave final approval Tuesday to legislation that recognizes same-sex unions from elsewhere.
The vote is considered the first step toward eventually allowing gay marriages to be performed in Washington.
Congress, which has final say over the city’s laws, will get 30 days to review the bill assuming Democratic Mayor Adrian Fenty, a supporter, signs it.
If Congress takes no action, the bill will become law automatically.
President Barack Obama and congressional leaders have not signaled where they stand on the D.C. bill. Obama generally supports civil unions but has said marriage is between a man and a woman.
Vermont, Connecticut, Massachusetts and Iowa already allow gay marriage and lawmakers in several other states are considering whether to do the same. New York recognizes gay marriages performed in other states.
Maine bill clears hurdle
The Maine Legislature has approved a bill that would make the state the fifth to allow gay marriage.
The bill faces one more vote each in the House and Senate before it goes to Gov. John Baldacci. He remains undecided.
by the associated press
The vote is considered the first step toward eventually allowing gay marriages to be performed in Washington.
Congress, which has final say over the city’s laws, will get 30 days to review the bill assuming Democratic Mayor Adrian Fenty, a supporter, signs it.
If Congress takes no action, the bill will become law automatically.
President Barack Obama and congressional leaders have not signaled where they stand on the D.C. bill. Obama generally supports civil unions but has said marriage is between a man and a woman.
Vermont, Connecticut, Massachusetts and Iowa already allow gay marriage and lawmakers in several other states are considering whether to do the same. New York recognizes gay marriages performed in other states.
Maine bill clears hurdle
The Maine Legislature has approved a bill that would make the state the fifth to allow gay marriage.
The bill faces one more vote each in the House and Senate before it goes to Gov. John Baldacci. He remains undecided.
by the associated press
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