Josh Green on Civil Rights

Create civil unions for couples who cannot marry

Honolulu Star-Advertiser summary: Civil unions accords legal rights to couples whom federal law bars from marriage, a status that comes with federal rights and social conventions as well. It's a matter of basic fairness, ensuring that the state gives couples a clear path to services and protections that otherwise can elude them.

Veto Message: It is essentially marriage by another name. I have been consistent in my opposition to same-gender marriage, but my personal opinion is not the basis for my decision. This decision is of such societal significance that the people of Hawaii deserve the right to directly decide whether the changes contemplated by HB 444 should become law.

Legislative Outcome: Passed Senate 18-7-0 on 1/22/10; Sen. Green voted YES; Passed House 31-20-0 on 4/29; Vetoed by Gov. Lingle on 6/6.