According to AP, the NH House passed it. The vote wasn’t expected until tomorrow. And last I heard Governor John Lynch said he believes marriage to be between a man and a woman and feels the state’s civil unions are sufficient for equality.
LATER, clarity:
The bill legalizing same-sex marriage is on its way to the desk of Gov. John Lynch following a narrow vote of approval in the House today.
The House voted, 178-167, to accept a Senate-approved compromise (HB 436) that would let gays and lesbians marry next Jan. 1.
If Lynch agreed, New Hampshire would become the sixth state where gays could marry.
Maine became the fifth state to make them legal after Gov. John Baldacci signed it into law earlier today.
Same-sex couples have been able to enter into a civil union in New Hampshire since Jan. 1, 2008. […]
Prior to the House vote, Lynch declined to say if he would sign, veto the bill or let it become law without his signature. Lynch has publicly said he opposes same-sex marriage as it should be reserved for a man and a woman but never said he would veto such a bill.
“Ultimately, my decision will be guided by what I think is best for the people of New Hampshire and the people of this state,’’ Lynch said.
Via Towleroad, “The New Hampshire Freedom to Marry Coalition has been urging voters to call Lynch to tell him to support the bill. (That info is here.)”