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NH State Representative Dana Hilliard of Somersworth and I are offering legislation allowing Spousal Unions between same-sex couples as part of the march toward equality for all of our New Hampshire residents.
Our legislation would provide all of the RIGHTS, OBLIGATIONS, AND RESPONSIBILITIES of marriage to same-sex relationships. The bill is simple, specific, and accomplishes equality of rights.
Over two hundred and thirty-one years ago this country began a journey -- a journey on a promise. That promise is what makes our society different. That promise is what continues to give our nation hope. The rights promised to us in the Declaration of Independence and later reaffirmed in the Constitution are what identify us as Americans and as New Hampshire citizens.
To deny any citizen their right to pursue happiness is not the American Way. Our New Hampshire motto "Live Free or Die" affirms our commitment to the protection of citizen's rights. It is time we start living up to our promise, and our motto.
As sponsors of this legislation, we agree with others who believe that we should allow a process for the legal and formal union by gay and lesbian couples. It is important to encourage people to make mutual commitments with one another, and our Spousal Unions bill provides that to happen.
The democratic process often requires us to fight for equality in steps. Spousal Unions would be the New Hampshire way of doing so, just as civil unions have done for the gay and lesbian residents of other states.
The House Judiciary Committee is holding a public hearing on our bill this Monday, March 5th, at 11:00 AM in the Legislative Office Building, Room 208. If you agree with our legislation, please write to the Judiciary Committee members, who can be found on the NH State Government WEBSITE.
I am also in favor of full marriage rights for gays and lesbians with the word "marriage," and will be suggesting to the Committee that if it believes that would pass this year, that HB 437 should be amended to do so. Regardless, I believe the "Spousal Unions" approach would accomplish much, and is needed now.
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