Same-gender Marriage Bill Introduced in Both Chambers
Support from Speaker Fox, pledge of committee vote in Senate, backers hopeful for passage this year. Two Coventry representatives have sponsored the bill.
STATE HOUSE – Legislation to allow same-gender couples to marry in Rhode Island was introduced today in both chambers, with a pledge from House Speaker Gordon Fox for a floor vote early in the session. The legislation has broad support, with 42 members of the House signing on as sponsors and 11 members of the Senate. Included in the 42 House members are Representatives Scott J. Guthrie (D-Dist. 28, Coventry) and Lisa P. Tomasso (D-Dist. 29, Coventry, West Greenwich). “We are long overdue. Rhode Island, the colony founded on the principle of personal liberty, is now the only New England state that doesn’t allow same-gender couples equal marriage. Rhode Islanders recognize that same-gender couples deserve the rights and responsibilities …
