While the NY State Assembly has approved same sex marriages, the Senate remains a toss up. Since the legislative session ends Monday, 6/20, the Senate needs to act now. While 58% of New Yorkers support the current measure, the Senate battle is almost 50-50.

Some Senators, sensing a possible defeat in blocking the bill, have switched tactics. They are now saying they support the bill, BUT worry about the legal impact on religious organizations being forced to violate the law in favor of their religious convictions. NY Churches were an important part in drafting this legislation, and substantial protection was given them in the legislation. The tactic is meant to delay the legislation until a future year, more likely never.

IMO this, basically Republican, attempt to undermine support for equality for all is a dishonorable practice. To stand up in support while doing everything to defeat the approval is dirty politics at its worse. These anti-gays in tinsel clothing are playing both sides of the voters. They will be up campaigning that they supported gay equality through the marriage act they sunk to one group while telling others they protected their rights not to be forced into a gay life. Just more two-faced politicians telling each group what they want to hear to mask their true nature.

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The NY Senate Republicans continue to drag out this bill. Will not release it to the Floor for vote as they feel the majority will pass it. The Legislative Session was scheduled to close last Monday, but was dragged out as they debated which should be the State Vegetable. Meanwhile property tax cap, gay marriage and other important legislation lanquishes in Committee.

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The New York Legislature tonight approved same sex marriage. The legislation was supported strongly by Governor Andrew Cuomo as part of his campaign platform. Same sex marriage will be valid in NY, incl. NY City, 30 days after signing by the Governor which he promised to do tonight. NY does not have a residence requirement for a marriage license. Marriages conducted in NY State will be recognized by all 50 states and the Federal government. Republicans dropped opposition allowing the bill out of committee where it passed on the floor 33-29.

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Several cities and towns opened their Clerk's office at midnight today to allow same sex couples to wed as soon as it became legal. NY is the sixth, and largest, state to fully legalize same sex marriages. Want to get hitched to your significant other of the same sex, make it a New York bliss.

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