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Shap Smith on Civil Rights |
Vermont legislative summary for S.115: Marriage is the legally recognized union of two people [changing the definition from "one man and one woman"]. Gender-specific terms relating to the marital relationship, including "spouse," "bride," "groom," "husband," "wife," "widow," and "widower," shall be construed to be gender-neutral for all purposes throughout the law.
Governor's veto message: This is an issue that is intensely personal, but I am charged by our Constitution to act, and by its return without my signature, I have fulfilled that responsibility. Vermont's civil union law has afforded the same state rights, responsibilities and benefits of marriage to same sex couples. I believe that marriage should remain between a man and a woman.
Legislative outcome: 4/6 vetoed by Governor Douglas; 4/7 veto override in House 94-52-3; 4/7 Senate veto override 23-5-2.
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