Maryland Senate Vote on Marriage Bill Set for Today

February 24, 2011

Today the freedom to marry is poised for a big win in Maryland. The Senate is scheduled to vote on a marriage bill today after coming back from a recess at 5:30 pm. A majority of Senators have promised to support the measure, and there are no plans for a filibuster.

Yesterday the bill passed an important preliminary vote 25 to 22, and the numbers are expected to be the same today. The bill was amended earlier in the day so that religious organizations won't be required to offer insurance benefits to gay couples. The change was supported by the bill's sponsors and is similar to a section in Vermont's marriage law.

There was an amendment adopted that was opposed by the sponsors – it changed the name of the measure from the Religious Freedom and Civil Marriage Protection Act to just the Civil Marriage Protection Act.

"I believe in freedom and this bill shows that we believe in personal freedom," Senator Allan Kittleman (R) said during today's debate.

Senator Richard Madaleno (D), speaking about his partner, said, "He is my spouse in every sense of the word. By law, he is just a stranger."

Our partner Equality Maryland is live-tweeting the proceedings – you can follow them on Twitter at @EqualityMD.

After the Senate, the House will consider the bill. Governor Martin O'Malley has said he will sign the measure.