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DC Council, Over Religious Objections, Votes To Recognize Gay Marriages From Elsewhere

By Howard M. Friedman

According to the Washington Post, over the opposition of a number of local ministers and others, the D.C. City Council yesterday voted 12-1 to recognize gay marriages performed elsewhere. The sole vote against the bill was former D.C. Mayor Marion Barry, who said he decided on his vote after prayer and discussion with religious leaders. He says his vote represents his constituents' wishes. (US News.) If, as expected, Mayor Adrian M. Fenty signs the bill, Congress will then have 30 days to pass, and send to the President for his signature, a joint resolution disapproving the law. (DC Home Rule Act, Sec. 602(c)). Immediately after the Council vote, a crowd of opponents, led by local ministers, began shouting that new Council members were needed. Security guards had to be called to restore order. If this bill is approved by Congress, it is expected that Council will later move to authorize gay marriages to be performed in the District.

Full post as published by Religion Clause on May 06, 2009 (boomark / email).