live equal or die

Gay marriage legislation became law in New Hampshire this afternoon. Gov. John Lynch signed the bills just after 5:20 p.m. before dozens of enthusiastic supporters of same-sex marriage.

New Hampshire’s law takes effect Jan. 1.

HB 73, compromise legislation demanded by the governor, was passed by a vote of 14-10 in the Senate and 198-176 in the House today. HB 73 (text), was an add-on to the gay marriage bill itself, HB 436 (text), and to HB 310 (text), which made technical changes to the main bill.

HB 73 clarifies the rights of religious organizations and their employees to refuse to participate in same-sex marriage ceremonies or celebrations. It states that religious groups have exclusive control over doctrine, teaching and beliefs on who can marry within their faiths.

Obviously, the wingnut scare tactics worked their magic at least a bit – but not enough to kill the bill.

Way to go, New Hampshire!

UPDATE - One of the commenters to the above article wrote:

We might as well go all the way and legalize recreational sex for everyone.

I believe (at least for adults) that horse has already left the barn, guy.

I’m sorry that you’ve obviously never allowed yourself to fully recreate, though. It might loosen you up a bit.