NJ Democrats ID Gay Marriage Bill As Top Priority
By Kim Glovas
TRENTON, N.J. (CBS) -- The first bill introduced Monday in the New Jersey Assembly and Senate was a measure to legalize same sex marriage.
Democrats say it is their top priority.
The same-sex marriage proposal went down to defeat two years ago. But Steven Goldstein, chairman of Garden State Equality, says two years has made a great difference for the bill.
"It is completely a different world for marriage equality, in New Jersey and frankly, nationally, than it was just three years ago. It's hard to believe how fast our civil rights movement is accelerating."
Goldstein says part of the reason is the support of Senate President Steve Sweeney who voted against the proposal last time.
"I think Steve Sweeney turned around because he is a very, very open-minded guy who actually listens to people, has a big open heart and a big open mind and that's the difference."
Governor Christie says he'll veto the measure. Supporters are hoping to garner two-thirds support in both houses to override the veto.
