Vermont's Republican Governor Jim Douglas fulfills his shameful promise to veto legislation that would legalize same-sex marriage in the state.
In his prepared statement, the governor said even if the bill were to become law, federal benefits would still be denied to same-sex couples in Vermont. "This legislation does not address the inequalities espoused by proponents. Regardless of whether the term marriage is applied, federal benefits will still be denied to same sex couples in Vermont. And states that do not recognize same sex marriage or civil unions will also deny state rights and responsibilities to same sex couples in Vermont. This bill will not change that fact."
The full statement is here (PDF).
The Vermont House and Senate are expected to try to override the governor’s veto on Tuesday. Both Houses are controlled by Democrats. The Senate is expected to override the veto and it's unclear what the House will do.
Hedy Jimbo...
Thanks for thinking of us!
Posted by: The Gays | 06 April 2009 at 22:21
Well, I wasn't surprised by his veto. He had announced his decision a few days ago. No matter what happens, this issue will not be placed on the back burner any longer in Vermont.
Posted by: Ravenback | 07 April 2009 at 00:09
Defeated, motherf**ker. Veto override.
Posted by: Said | 07 April 2009 at 10:05
As per numerous sources, Vermont's legislature has overridden Gov. Douglas' veto of gay marriage. Vermont now joins Connecticut and Massachusetts as the third US state to have same-sex marriage. Vermont, YES!!!
Posted by: Nathan James | 07 April 2009 at 10:11
Oh, and Iowa, too!
Posted by: Nathan James | 07 April 2009 at 10:13
The bill goes into efefct September 1.
100-49 in the House.
23-5 in the Senate.
The first legislature to adopt marriage equality has to do it by veto override.
I wonder if Chief Justice Ronald George now understands what side of history he wants to be on?
Posted by: Mad Professah | 07 April 2009 at 10:25