The Senate on Monday gave initial approval to S. 115, the same-sex marriage bill, on a 26-4 vote -- a margin that surprised even supporters.
The measure comes up for final approval Tuesday, and will then be sent to the House. The House is expected to begin its review immediately.
Voting against the measure in the Senate were Sens. Vince Illuzi (R) and Robert Starr (D), both Orleans/Essex; Sen. Hull Maynard, R-Rutland; and Sen. Randy Brock, R-Franklin.
The quick action follows the 5-0 vote by the Senate Judiciary Committee Friday approving the measure.
As with Friday’s committee consideration, Sen. Kevin Mullin, R-Rutland, again offered an amendment to delay consideration until after a statewide referendum next year. The unsuccessful amendment gained the support of 11 senators, seven of whom then supported the bill after spirited speeches by Sens. John Campbell, D-Windsor; Dick McCormack, D-Windsor; and Peter Shumlin, Senate president pro tem, D-Windham.
Gov. Douglas remains mum on whether he’ll veto the bill if it reaches his desk.
Read the ACLU’s memo to Vermont`s senators urging passage of S. 115. |
