A bill giving gay couples civil-union rights is advancing toward a showdown in the Colorado Senate.
The associated Press reports:
Gay couples waiting for rights similar to those afforded to married couples are closer to a legislative showdown with Colorado Republicans.
Hundreds of people packed a hearing room Wednesday at the state Capitol to plead with lawmakers to give them legal protections traditional couples enjoy. The issue has gained traction as more states have recently passed either civil union or gay marriage laws.
Democratic Gov. John Hickenlooper urged lawmakers to pass civil unions during his State of the State speech last month, and more Republicans have expressed public support for the measure.
A Senate committee approved civil unions legislation after hours of emotional testimony on a 5-2 vote, with one Republican senator joining Democrats. The bill is expected to easily clear the full Senate. The real challenge will be in the Republican-controlled House.
Read the full article via THE WASHINGTON POST
