News (USA)

R.I. governor warns he will veto efforts to put same-sex marriage to a public vote

R.I. governor warns he will veto efforts to put same-sex marriage to a public vote

PROVIDENCE, R.I. — Rhode Island Gov. Lincoln Chafee said Thursday that he would likely veto any attempt to put same-sex marriage to a public vote, and said state lawmakers owe it to voters to decide the issue in the legislature.

Lincoln Chafee

The Rhode Island House of Representatives is scheduled to vote within weeks on legislation that would allow same-sex couples to marry, however opponents of same-sex marriage have expressed their support for alternative legislation that would put the question before voters.

Same-sex marriage supporters say the issue is one of civil rights and shouldn’t be decided by a vote. Rhode Island is now the only state in New England without same-sex marriage.

White House spokesman Shin Inouye responded to the pending legislation, noting that President Barack Obama supports approval of the bill.

“While the President does not weigh in on every measure being considered by the states, he believes all couples should be treated fairly and equally, with dignity and respect,” said Inouye.

“As he has said, his personal view is that it’s wrong to prevent couples who are in loving, committed relationships, and want to marry, from doing so,” he said.

Chafee, an independent who supports marriage equality, signed a civil unions law in July 2011 with the promise that it would move Rhode Island closer to the ultimate goal of legalizing same-sex marriage.

Under an executive order signed by Chafee in May 2012, Rhode Island currently recognizes the marriages of gay and lesbian couples performed elsewhere.

Don't forget to share:

Support vital LGBTQ+ journalism

Reader contributions help keep LGBTQ Nation free, so that queer people get the news they need, with stories that mainstream media often leaves out. Can you contribute today?

Cancel anytime · Proudly LGBTQ+ owned and operated

Pastor withdraws from inauguration after audio of anti-gay sermon surfaces

Previous article

Lively: ‘Wedding songs to homosexual marriage’ are responsible for Noah’s flood, End Times

Next article