The full Senate takes up S. 115, the same-sex marriage bill, this week. Debate begins Monday at 3 p.m.
The quick action follows the 5-0 vote by the Senate Judiciary Committee Friday approving the measure.
Friday’s unanimous vote was a surprise. It was felt there would be at least one dissenting vote (and possibly two) in the committee.
Sen. Kevin Mullin of Rutland County did offer an amendment to delay consideration until after a statewide referendum next year, but it was defeated 4-1. Mullin then, on the final vote to pass the bill out of committee, joined the majority to make it 5-0.
The Senate’s Monday session is rare. Usually legislative business doesn’t resume after the weekend until Tuesday.
It’s conceivable that the Senate could finish its debate on Tuesday and immediately “message” the bill over to the House for its consideration.
Some observers think the House could debate and pass the bill by the end of the week, but that seems almost impossibly fast-paced. But so far, legislative leaders have kept to the quick schedule they promised. And Gov. Douglas -- still mum on whether he’ll veto a same-sex marriage bill -- is urging quick action so the issue can be resolved.
Read the ACLU’s memo to Vermont`s senators urging passage of S. 115. |
