Marriage equality in DE???

In 2011 Delaware enacted legislation for civil unions to begin in 2012.  While I believe full marriage equality is better, civil unions do provide the same rights are marriage in the state of DE, and it was thought that if civil unions were adopted, it might pave the way for full marriage equality. DE has a wonderfully supportive Governor in Jack Markell.  Over and over he has voiced his support for equality for all Delawareans.

True to his words, last Wed Gov Markell announced that he would introduce marriage equality legislation (HB75) to the Delaware General Assembly that day.  This is step #2 of the process.

Today, 1 week later, HB75 passed by a vote of 4-1 and is out of committee and goes to the House floor!  My friend and fellow blogger Ron gave testimony to the committee about his 49-year relationship which deserves to be legally recognized as a marriage.  That was step #3.

Ron of "Retired in Delaware" talks to the committee

The House is scheduled to vote on HB75 next Tues, 4/23 and the Senate shortly thereafeter, I think.   This is step #4.  If the bill passes, the only remaining step would be Gov Markell's signature, which will make it law.  This would make Delaware the 11th state to grant marriage equality to its citizens. 

Although Spouse & I have a civil union, I believe it will automatically 'convert' to a marriage in Delaware, as has been the case in many other states that started with civil unions before marriage.  I wonder if we will get a new marriage certificate in place of our civil union license?  

My sincere thanks go out to Equality Delaware for all their hard work and communication on this issue.  Stay tuned for more!