Law takes effect Jan. 1, 2010 CONCORD, N.H. — The bill making
New Hampshire the sixth state to allow gays to marry followed a
torturous path this spring — dying and rising to life twice and
facing a veto threat — that ended in a room filled with
cheering, clapping supporters Wednesday, June 4, who witnessed
the governor’s historic signing. In its final version, the
legislation passed in the House by its biggest margin yet — 22
votes. Gov. John Lynch, who personally opposes the unions, said
the legislation struck the right balance. "Today is a day to
celebrate in New Hampshire. Today should not be considered a
victory for some and a loss for others," Lynch said before
signing the law. "Today is a victory for all the people of New
Hampshire, who I believe, in our own independent way, want
tolerance for all." Legalizing gay marriage is a historic change
for the once reliably Republican and conservative state but
reflects New Hampshire’s changing demographics as younger and
more liberal. Still, the legislation fa