After a year of highly contested debate and political wrangling, the Maryland General Assembly is poised to become the third state legislature this month to approve same-sex marriage after the House of Delegates Friday voted 72-67 to pass the Civil Marriage Protection Act. ”I think it’s a great day for liberty in Maryland and America,” said House Majority Leader Kumar P. Barve, D-Montgomery. “I’m so happy that my gay and lesbian friends can have the same rights that I have.”
A nearly two hour debate with many delegates expressing the reasons for their votes ended when House Speaker Michael E. Busch called for a final vote, and the same-sex marriage supporters that packed the gallery erupted with resounding joy when they realized the bill had passed
– TOM MCPARLAND