Legislation to allow gay and lesbian couples to marry in Rhode Island is heading to a debate and vote in the state House of Representatives.
A House committee voted unanimously Tuesday to forward the legislation to the House, which is expected to consider it on Thursday.
Gay marriage advocates say they expect the bill to pass the House but they’re less confident about its chances in the Senate. Gay marriage legislation has been introduced in Rhode Island for years, but has never made it a vote in either legislative chamber.
Two years ago, lawmakers approved civil unions for same-sex couples after it became apparent gay marriage would not pass the Senate.
Nine states and Washington, D.C., allow same-sex marriage. Rhode Island is the only New England state without gay marriage.
