The Vermont Senate passed legislation Monday that would legalize same-sex marriage in the state. The bill passed 26-4. It now moves to the House where supporters believe it is likely to be approved. But whether Vermont Gov. James Douglas (R) will sign it is unknown.
The measure would replace Vermont’s first-in-the-nation civil unions law with one that allows marriage of same-sex partners beginning Sept. 1. Civil unions, which confer some rights similar to marriage, would still be recognized but no longer granted after Sept. 1.
House Speaker Shap Smith (D) said he expects the bill to be approved, but by a narrow margin.
Gov. Douglas chastised the legislature for spending time on the bill when it should be focused on the economy and has said that he believes the civil union law is sufficient for same-sex couples. He has not said, however, if he intends to veto it.
If Douglas were to nix the bill, it is unclear if there are enough votes to override a veto.
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