Rhode Island is the first state to pass same sex marriage where the entire caucus of either party has approved the measure as all five republican members of the State Senate voted for the bill. Governor Chaffee signed the bill into law last night just before 7pm.
Delaware is likely to be the next state to pass same sex marriage… “perhaps as soon as next week.” … Minnesota and Illinois are also on track to pass similar legislation.
Not all Rhode Islanders are happy about the passage of the bill however as Bishop Thomas J. Tobin said he was “profoundly disappointed” and warned Catholics to think carefully before attending any gay or lesbian weddings.
“Catholics should examine their consciences very carefully before deciding whether or not to endorse same-sex relationships or attend same-sex ceremonies, realizing that to do so might harm their relationship with God and cause significant scandal to others.”
From Governor Chaffee: “…you have been waiting for this day to come. I know that you have loved ones who dreamed this would happen and did not live to see it. But I am proud to say that now, at long last, you are free to marry the person you love.”
The Rhode Island law will take effect on August 1.