A bill recognizing same-sex marriages legally performed in other states was signed by Washington D.C. mayor Adrian Fenty on Thursday following a 12-1 council vote supporting the measure on Tuesday. The bill now goes to the U.S. Congress for final approval.
The D.C. legislation is the latest in a string of marriage equality victories. Currently, five states have legalized gay marriage.
Supporters of marriage equality were encouraged by a statement issued by Democratic House Speaker, Nancy Pelosi, who said, “I have long believed that Congress should not interfere with internal decisions made by the District of Columbia’s elected representatives -- just as the Congress did not intervene in the state of New York’s recognition of valid marriage contracts in other jurisdictions."
Traditional marriage adovcates are expected to oppose the Washington D.C. measure.
"Some things are worth fighting for, and this is one of them," Rep. Jason Chaffetz of Utah, the ranking Republican on the subcommittee that oversees the District, told The Washington Post. "I recognize the Democrats are in the majority, but I represent the majority of Americans on this issue."
What are your predictions on the measure's outcome? Do you think that the Democratic majority will be able to quickly approve the bill, or will the opposition successfully obstruct its progress?
Comments
It's time.
Joe Mustich, Justice of the Peace
Washington CT USA
As I understand it, there is no need for Congress to approve this legislation. If Congress does nothing within 30 session days, laws passed by the D.C. city council will take effect as scheduled. This conclusion is based on a statement by Barney Frank (D-Mass) who surely knows what he is talking about.
My best guess is that most members of Congress don't want to touch this issue with a ten-foot pole, and any attempt to bring this up in committee will be countered with the argument that there are more urgent things to do. I couldn't agree more.
"but I represent the majority of Americans on this issue"
He obviously does not read the recent polls.
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