New Hampshire Governor backs same-sex unions

Governor backs same-sex unions
Copyright © 2007, Chicago Tribune
Published April 20, 2007

CONCORD, NEW HAMPSHIRE -- CONCORD -- Gov. John Lynch said Thursday he will sign legislation establishing civil unions for gay couples in New Hampshire.

"I believe it is a matter of conscience, fairness and preventing discrimination," Lynch said.

New Hampshire would become the fourth state to adopt civil unions, following Connecticut, Vermont and New Jersey. Massachusetts established gay marriage.

Lynch had previously declined to take a public position on civil unions, though he has supported expanding health benefits to same-sex partners of state workers.

He came under fire from both sides for not weighing in, especially after a delay last week of the Senate vote on the House-passed bill.

The Senate is to vote next week, and Lynch said he is confident the legislation will pass. It would authorize civil unions beginning next year.

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Items compiled from Tribune news services.