After a landmark decision in New Hampshire’s legislature late last month which would make gay marriage legal in the New England state, this dream is coming closer to becoming a reality as the governor said today that he will sign the bill when it comes across his desk — with a few modifications.

New Hampshire Governor John Lynch says that when a new draft of the bill comes his way — one which will allow churches to refuse to marry gay couples if this goes against their beliefs — he will indeed sign the bill into law. This would also apply to wedding service providers (think caterers, florists) as well, who will not be able to be sued for discrimination if they refuse to provide their services. Legislators have agreed with the changes and will provide churches “protection” from having to perform same-sex ceremonies if their traditions don’t allow it.

Governor Lynch had some inspiring words today with regard to the legislature’s decision and his own new way of thinking:

Lynch, a Democrat, had loomed as a possible obstacle in New Hampshire. The governor had supported civil unions but consistently opposed gay marriage. But his thinking changed, he said yesterday.

“Throughout our history, our society’s views of civil rights have constantly evolved and expanded,” Lynch said in a nearly 600-word statement. He cited New Hampshire’s tradition of landing “on the side of individual liberties and protections,” adding, “That is what I believe we must do today.”

The passage of the gay marriage bill in New Hampshire’s and Maine’s legislatures makes 6 states in the U.S. that allow or will allow same sex marriage. In New England, the only one that still prohibits it is Rhode Island.

Via / Boston Globe