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The Massachusetts legislature last week handily defeated an attempt to put the issue of same-sex marriage before voters in a statewide referendum. By a vote of 151–45, the legislature rejected a bid to place a constitutional amendment banning gay marriage on the state ballot in 2008. Massachusetts has permitted gay marriage since 2004—the result of a court ruling. “Today’s vote,” said Democratic Gov. Deval Patrick, “is a vote for equality itself.” Gay-marriage opponents said the issue should be decided by citizens, not by “judicial fiat,” and have vowed to keep pressing their case. Massachusetts is the only state to recognize gay marriage, although New Jersey and Vermont allow civil unions.
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