Hit and run blogging today after a quiet weekend, because I'm dealing with a dog crisis.
From Equality California:
This is a very important and historic day for equality and all families. Today the California Assembly puts families first as they vote on providing all families with equal legal protections. Equality California-sponsored Assembly Bill 19, the Religious Freedom and Civil Marriage Protection Act by Assemblymember Mark Leno (D-San Francisco), Assembly Speaker Fabian Núñez (D-Los Angeles), and 30 co-authors will be considered today by the California Assembly. For the first time in our nation's history, a state legislative body will be voting on whether to grant same-sex couples the right to obtain a civil marriage license.
Today legislators will take a stand either for or against equality as we and the more than 200 diverse organizations on record in support of AB 19 — from ministries to community centers — witness history being made. Today’s vote is about more than just marriage. It is about allowing lesbians and gay men to take responsibility for their families. It is about safety. And, it is about equal treatment under the law. Equality is a value that is deeply rooted in our history and traditions, and this legislation, if passed, will honor and celebrate this fundamental value.
41 yes votes are needed to pass this legislation. The effect of a member abstaining or not voting is the exact same as a no vote since 41 yes votes are required to pass legislation in the Assembly.The floor session will begin at 11 A.M. and AB 19 is expected to be heard in the afternoon. If you would like to view the hearing, check the live webcast — click here.
Comments