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Hawaii to become 15th state to allow same-sex marriage

UPI/Terry Schmitt
UPI/Terry Schmitt | License Photo

HONOLULU, Nov. 12 (UPI) -- Hawaii's Legislature Tuesday passed a bill allowing same-sex marriage, and Gov. Neil Abercrombie said he will sign it.

"I want to congratulate the Hawaii state Legislature on passing legislation in support of marriage equality," President Barack Obama said in a statement from the White House.

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"With today's vote, Hawaii joins a growing number of states that recognize that our gay and lesbian brothers and sisters should be treated fairly and equally under the law. Whenever freedom and equality are affirmed, our country becomes stronger.

"By giving loving gay and lesbian couples the right to marry if they choose, Hawaii exemplifies the values we hold dear as a nation. I've always been proud to have been born in Hawaii, and today's vote makes me even prouder. And Michelle and I extend our best wishes to all those in Hawaii whose families will now be now given the security and respect they deserve."

Abercrombie issued a proclamation Oct. 28 requiring the Legislature to consider same-sex marriage legislation.

"I look forward to signing this significant piece of legislation, which provides marriage equity and fully recognizes and protects religious freedoms," Abercrombie said in a statement.

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Hawaii will be the 15th state to allow same-sex marriage when the legislation is signed into law.

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