After a year of highly contested debate and political wrangling, the Maryland General Assembly is poised to become the third state legislature this month to approve same-sex marriage after the House of Delegates Friday voted 72-67 to pass the Civil Marriage Protection Act. “I think it’s a great day for liberty in Maryland and America,” said House Majority Leader Kumar P. Barve, D-Montgomery. “I’m so happy that my gay and lesbian friends can have the same rights that I have.”
A nearly two hour debate with many delegates expressing the reasons for their votes ended when House Speaker Michael E. Busch called for a final vote, and the same-sex marriage supporters that packed the gallery erupted with resounding joy when they realized the bill had passed
— TOM MCPARLAND
Write a Letter to the Editor on this Article
We encourage readers to offer their point of view on this article by submitting the following form. Editing is sometimes necessary and is done at the discretion of the editorial staff.