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| Photo: Tanner/AP |
Republican Governor Linda Lingle vetoed House Bill 444 yesterday, which would have allowed same-sex couples in Hawaii to enter into civil unions that provide the same spousal rights as traditional marriage. On the last day she had to either approve or veto the bill, Lingle called a press conference to announce her decision.
“There has not been a bill I have contemplated more or an issue I have thought more deeply about during my eight years as governor than House Bill 444 and the institution of marriage,” Lingle explained. “I have been open and consistent in my opposition to same-sex marriage, and find that House Bill 444 is essentially same-sex marriage by another name.” Lingle continued. “It would be a mistake to allow a decision of this magnitude to be made by one individual or a small group of elected officials.”
Supporters of H.B. 444 have vowed to keep fighting for equality in the Aloha State. You can help the cause by visiting and supporting Equality Hawaii.
