RI gov opposes bill to put gay marriage to vote

January 10, 2013, 1:52 pm


PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) — Rhode Island's governor says he wants lawmakers to pass gay marriage and that he'd be inclined to veto any attempt to place it on a ballot as a referendum.

Gov. Lincoln Chafee (CHAY'-fee) told reporters Thursday that lawmakers owe it to voters to decide themselves.

The House of Representatives is expected to vote within weeks on legislation that would allow gay and lesbian couples to wed. But some opponents have voiced support for alternative legislation that would put the question before voters.

Gay marriage supporters say the issue is one of civil rights and shouldn't be decided by a vote.

Rhode Island is now the only state in New England without gay marriage.

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