Same-sex couples who hope to marry in New Hampshire will remain in limbo for now, after the House yesterday narrowly voted down an amendment that Gov. John Lynch had termed crucial to winning his support for legalizing gay marriage in New Hampshire.

The fight isn't over: After nixing the Lynch amendment 188-186, the House yesterday voted to seek a House-Senate committee to hammer out a compromise. The Lynch amendment spelled out the rights of religious groups and their employees to refuse to partake in same-sex weddings. Backers of same-sex marriage broadcast optimism last night that an agreement could be reached. ...

Lynch's language provided that religious organizations and their employees can refrain from participating in any wedding that violates their faith without fear of lawsuits or state-imposed penalty. Opponents of same-sex marriage attacked the Lynch amendment as rushed, incomplete or unnecessary, saying it would provide no protections that aren't already provided constitutionally or in state law. Supporters said the language would clarify such protections.

Labels: gay marriage, New Hampshire, religious liberty

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