New York state approves gay marriage

Gerald · 06-26-11, 07:22 PM

Supporters of same-sex marriages in New York celebrated after the vote!

New York has become the sixth and most populous US state to allow same-sex marriage.

The Republican-controlled state senate voted 33-29 for a bill that had earlier been approved by the lower house, which has a Democratic majority.

New York Governor Andrew Cuomo quickly signed the bill into law. Gay weddings are expected to start within 30 days.

It has become a contentious social issue ahead of next year's presidential and congressional elections.

"New York has finally torn down the barrier that prevented same-sex couples from exercising the freedom to marry and from receiving the fundamental protections that so many couples and families take for granted," Mr Cuomo said in a statement.

He kept his promise to sign the bill as soon as he received it after the Senate vote - rather than wait the usual 10 days.

Gay rights activists said the approval of the bill was a key victory for them, in what is seen as the birthplace of the US gay rights movement.

"It's about time. I want to get married. I want the same rights as anyone else," 36-year-old student Caroline Jaeger told Reuters news agency.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-us-canada-13914013

Note: 25 June 2011 Last updated at 06:20 GMT

06-26-11, 07:22 PM	#1
Gerald SUBSIM Newsman Join Date: May 2008 Location: Close to sea Posts: 24,254 Downloads: 553 Uploads: 0	New York state approves gay marriage Supporters of same-sex marriages in New York celebrated after the vote! New York has become the sixth and most populous US state to allow same-sex marriage. The Republican-controlled state senate voted 33-29 for a bill that had earlier been approved by the lower house, which has a Democratic majority. New York Governor Andrew Cuomo quickly signed the bill into law. Gay weddings are expected to start within 30 days. It has become a contentious social issue ahead of next year's presidential and congressional elections. "New York has finally torn down the barrier that prevented same-sex couples from exercising the freedom to marry and from receiving the fundamental protections that so many couples and families take for granted," Mr Cuomo said in a statement. He kept his promise to sign the bill as soon as he received it after the Senate vote - rather than wait the usual 10 days. Gay rights activists said the approval of the bill was a key victory for them, in what is seen as the birthplace of the US gay rights movement. "It's about time. I want to get married. I want the same rights as anyone else," 36-year-old student Caroline Jaeger told Reuters news agency. http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-us-canada-13914013 Note: 25 June 2011 Last updated at 06:20 GMT __________________ Nothing in life is to be feard,it is only to be understood. Marie Curie