Vermont Governor To Veto Gay Marriage Bill

Written by Times Argus Wednesday, 25 March 2009 15:12

Gov. James Douglas, who had said previously he is opposed to same-sex marriage, announced this afternoon that he would veto a gay marriage bill approved by the state Senate if the legislation reaches his desk.

The bill is now pending in the House, where that chamber's Judiciary Committee began taking testimony this week.

Douglas said questions about how he would handle the bill if it passes both chambers has been distracting work at the Statehouse on other issues. He made the decision to announce his position to quiet those questions.

Democrats responded immediately.

“The governor’s announcement today undermines the legislative process is disrespectful to Vermonters who come to the people’s house to weigh in on the important matters of our time,” said House Speaker Shap Smith. “History will judge Jim Douglas on the wrong side of this issue.”

“Today is a sad day for Vermont,” said Senate President Pro Tem Peter Shumlin. “The governor may choose to veto a bill, but he cannot veto love and commitment.”

Read the original article at The Times Argus