ALBANY, N.Y. -- New York lawmakers have rejected a bill to legalize gay marriage.
The Senate decision Wednesday comes after months of delays and arm twisting of lawmakers sympathetic to the bill but representing conservative districts. It follows a referendum in Maine earlier this month that struck down a gay marriage law before it took effect.
Advocates say they aren't surprised by the decision. Most, including Gov. David Paterson, say they at least wanted a floor debate and vote.
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Gay marriage is legal in Connecticut, Iowa, Massachusetts and Vermont. A New Hampshire law takes effect Jan. 1.
THIS IS A BREAKING NEWS UPDATE. Check back soon for further information. AP's earlier story is below.
ALBANY, N.Y. (AP) _ New York's Senate will take a long-awaited vote on a bill to legalize gay marriage.
But the outcome of the vote Wednesday that could give final legislative approval to the measure remains in doubt.
The bill will need 32 votes to pass. And Democratic Sen. Liz Krueger, a leader in the majority, says the measure will need Republican votes because of opposition from some of the chamber's 32 Democrats.
Krueger says gay rights advocates believe they'll get at least a few Republican votes. But Republican Sen. Thomas Morahan says his conference hasn't taken a head count and he's not sure enough GOP senators will support the legislation.
Gay marriage is legal in Connecticut, Iowa, Massachusetts and Vermont. A New Hampshire law takes effect next year.
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