May 19, 2009
NH Senate panel recommends gay marriage amendment
by Norma Love
The Associated Press
Gay marriage faces two more hurdles if New Hampshire is to become the sixth state to allow gays to marry -- votes in the Senate and House on Wednesday.
Gov. John Lynch said last week he won't sign the already approved gay marriage legislation unless the language includes protection for churches and their employees against lawsuits if their beliefs preclude them from marrying gays. Gay marriage supporters have said they do not object to the revision.
Tuesday, the Senate Judiciary Committee took the first step toward satisfying Lynch's demand, voting 3-2 to recommend the expanded protections to the full Senate.
Most expect the Senate to approve the changes. But passage in the House is subject to which side gets a majority of the 398 sitting members to show up and vote.
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