The month-long stalemate in the New York state senate ended as abruptly as it began on Thursday, when Sen. Pedro Espada, Jr announced his return to the Democratic caucus, forgoing an alliance with the Republicans that split the chamber 31-31 and stalled the passage of all legislation, including the marriage equality bill. Under the arrangement that resolved the impasse, Democrats will maintain the narrow 32-30 majority they held before the leadership struggle erupted on June 8, and Espada will be their majority leader, though insiders expect a delay in passage of the marriage equality bill.While senators started to pass long-delayed legislation as early as Thursday evening, it remained unclear whether they would take up the marriage equality bill anytime soon. The bill passed the assembly in May and is supported by Governor David Paterson.
Senator Thomas K. Duane, the openly gay Democrat who carries the marriage equality bill, issued a statement on Thursday in which he said the he expects the senate this week will “pass only time-sensitive, non-controversial legislation.”
“As disappointing as it is to admit, it is clear that this week is not the right moment for same-sex marriage legislation,” Duane said. “Senators need some time and distance to regroup after this month’s partisan-charged and explosive atmosphere. Before June 8th, Senators from both sides of the aisle committed to me that they would vote for marriage equality. I still believe this to be the case. However, as I have said many times this session, I will not gamble when civil rights are at stake. If this means a short delay in order for marriage to become law it is well worth the wait.
“The June 8th coup may have delayed equality, but it will not stop it,” said Duane.
From the Advocate
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