NEW: Chafee Applauds Committee vote on Same-Sex Marriage
Tuesday, January 22, 2013
Governor Lincoln Chafee, who has been a vocal supporter of same sex marriage in Rhode Island, has issued a statement following it’s historic passage by the House Judiciary Committee.
Chafee says he is pleased with the way the vote went this afternoon and feels that the decision by the committee is “another significant step forward toward marriage equality.”
“As I noted in my State of the State Address last week, there are a number of reasons why we should bring marriage equality to Rhode Island this year,” Chafee said. “It is a civil rights issue, it is an issue of basic fairness, and it is an economic development issue. We are at an economic disadvantage with our neighboring states when we do not ‘have the welcome mat out’ for all those who want to work here and contribute to our economy. Rhode Island already lags behind all of our New England neighbors on this issue; we should swiftly remedy that for the good of our economy and the rights of our citizens.
GET THE LATEST BREAKING NEWS HERE -- SIGN UP FOR GOLOCAL FREE DAILY EBLAST“With this afternoon’s vote, we are one step closer to the day when gay and lesbian Rhode Islanders can enjoy the same fundamental rights, benefits, and privileges as all other citizens of our state. It is my hope that that day will come soon. I urge the leaders of the House and Senate to call the roll, and I will be proud to sign this important legislation when it reaches my desk.”
With the vote, the bill to legalize same sex marriage heads to the floor of the House of Representatives. It is expected to be voted on as soon as Thursday.
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