Gay marriage bill makes progress
Updated: January 4, 2013
SPRINGFIELD -- It's a small victory in a big fight for gay rights advocates. A Senate committee voted to allow same-sex marriage.
The state lawmakers passed the proposal earlier today. The bill now moves to the Senate floor. Many were hoping it would happen this week, but some members weren't there to vote.
With support, of course, comes opposition. Critics say marriage should remain between and a man and a woman.
The Senate could take another look at the proposal next week, if not then, it'll have to wait until Legislative Session.
The state lawmakers passed the proposal earlier today. The bill now moves to the Senate floor. Many were hoping it would happen this week, but some members weren't there to vote.
"There were a couple of legislators that had family emergencies this week. They had to take care of that. Family comes first, that's the essence of this bill," said Anthony Martinez with the Civil Rights Agenda.
It's only a minor set back though for advocates. Martinez says he's confident it'll pass.
"We have a lot of people who are very excited. They've been calling their legislators, they've been writing, they've been visiting. There's been a few rallies around the state to show support for the issue," he said.
One of those rallies took place the Capitol. Hundreds turned out to show support, including Modern Family star Jesse Tyler Ferguson.
The House sponsor of the bill is also hopeful. Representative Greg Harris says now is the time for marriage equality.With support, of course, comes opposition. Critics say marriage should remain between and a man and a woman.
The Senate could take another look at the proposal next week, if not then, it'll have to wait until Legislative Session.
