Gay Marriage Foes Attempt To Force Amendment Vote-Maryland

[davidinalameda]

http://www.365gay.com/Newscon08/02/020808md.htm

Opponents of three measures that would give varying rights to same-sex couples in Maryland say they will attempt to force a proposed amendment to ban same-sex marriage and civil unions directly onto the floor of the House and bypass committees.

Longtime gay foe in the legislature, Del. Donald H. Dwyer Jr. (R) is circulating a petition that would all a full House vote on the amendment.

Dwyer, who attempted to pass measures in the past limiting LGBT civil rights, needs the endorsement of 47 members of the House of Delegates to bypass the committee process and move the issue to a full vote. So far he has 34.

Dwyer also said he would press to have a bill that would legalize same-sex marriage in the state also moved directly to the floor so that voters can see where their delegates stand on both issues.