Civil Unions in New Hampshire?

The new Democratic majority in the New Hampshire General Court is not wasting any time on the issue of gay rights. The New Hampshire House of Representatives overwhelmingly voted in favor of legalizing civil unions in the states once thought to be New England's conservative stronghold.

By an almost party-line vote for 243-129, the House passed the measure that's expected to pass the Democratic-controlled Senate. The only obstacle to final passage may be the signature of Democratic Governor John Lynch, who opposes gay marriage but has not taken a stance on civil unions.

If Governor Lynch does sign the bill, it would make New Hampshire the fourth US state to legalize civil unions, and the third in New England. Civil Unions are legal in Vermont, Connecticut and New Jersey, while gay marriage is only legal in Massachusetts. Domestic partnerships are available in California, Maine, Hawaii and the District of Columbia. As for how it plays at the polls, a majority of New Hampshire residents support civil unions.

The vote may also play in Presidential politics, considering how important New Hampshire is in primary season. Senator Chris Dodd (D-Connecticut) and a Presidential candidate made his support for civil unions known in a speech in New Hampshire this week.

Interestingly, if New Hampshire legalizes civil unions, the only state in New England to offer no benefits to gay couples will be the most liberal state in the region and the nation; Rhode Island.