What's Your Reaction To The Passage of RI's First Civil Unions Bill?
With the governor poised to sign into law an historic piece of legislation, we're looking for residents' take on what it will mean for us. Is it fair? Is it right?
The South Kingstown Patch is looking for your reaction to the civil unions bill that passed the Rhode Island Senate on June 29, just over a month since a similar bill, sponsored by Johnston Rep. Peter Petrarca, cleared the House. Petrarca's bill gained momentum after a same-sex marriage bill, sponsored by Rep. Frank Ferri of Warwick, who is also the owner of Town Hall Lanes in Johnston, didn't make it out of committee. Gov. Lincoln Chafee is expected to sign the civil union legislation as early as today. The bill would allow towns to issue same-sex couples a certificate, much like a marriage license, that provides legal standing for their relationship. It does not require religious institutions to recognize or provide civil union …
Deedra Durocher
10:43 am on Saturday, July 2, 2011
I'm disappointed, but not surprised given the State's history. I am hopeful that perhaps in the next session, when folks realize the world does not come to an end when everyone is given the same equal rights, that we will move to the next and logical step. more ›