Earlier, I posted about a same-sex marriage law passed by the New Hampshire legislature, and indicated that the state followed Vermont's lead in adding significant explicit religious liberty protections. Apparently, they did not follow Vermont's lead quite to the Governor's liking. Unless they add even more language asserting the rights of religious organizations to be exempt from recognizing the marriages, John Lynch says, he will not sign the bill.
Lynch, who had expressed opposition to same-sex marriage in the past, said the bill approved by the New Hampshire House and Senate did not do enough to assert that churches and other religious groups would not be forced to conduct "marriage ceremonies that violate their fundamental religious beliefs."
The governor, a Democrat, proposed new wording to enhance the bill.
"If the Legislature passes this language, I will sign the same-sex marriage bill into law. If the Legislature doesn't pass these provisions, I will veto it," Lynch said. "We can and must treat both same-sex couples and people of certain religious traditions with respect and dignity. I believe this proposed language will accomplish both of these goals and I urge the Legislature to pass it."
He cited the laws in Connecticut and Vermont as models.
