A Rhode Island yacht club is making a historic change to its men-only policy.
Westerly Yacht Club members voted Wednesday night to change the policy at the nearly century-old club and allow women as full members. It passed by a 79 percent margin, satisfying a two-thirds majority requirement as required by club bylaws.
This was the second vote within about a month.
In June, members voted to uphold the policy, but decided to reconsider after dealing with fallout from their decision.
The old policy allowed wives as associate members, but they couldn't vote. Women who were not married to a male member couldn't join, even as associate members.
The new policy takes effect immediately. The club says anyone can apply, and their names will be added to a waiting list.
