ANNAPOLIS - Today, the American Civil Liberties Union of Maryland will be testifying to the House Judiciary Committee in support of HB 175 - Religious Freedom and Civil Marriage Protection Act and HB 55 - Religious Freedom and Civil Marriage Protection Act, and in opposition to HB 963 - Maryland's Marriage Protection Act. Following last night's historic vote of 25-21 in the state Senate in support of marriage licenses for same-sex couples in Maryland, the ACLU believes the time is now realize full equality for all our citizens.
From the testimony of David Rocah, Staff Attorney for the ACLU of Maryland: "The American Civil Liberties Union of Maryland strongly supports passage of HB 175, the Religious Freedom and Civil Marriage Protection Act, and the identical HB 55. This bill is a long overdue measure to ensure that all families in Maryland are treated with fairness and equality. Ensuring the passage of this bill has long been, and will continue to be, a priority for the ACLU of Maryland and its 14,000 members throughout the state. We oppose passage of HB 963 which seeks to alter Maryland's Constitution to elevate discrimination against families headed by lesbian and gay couples to a constitutional command. It is difficult to conceive of anything less appropriate as a constitutional principle."
WHAT: Hearing in the House Judiciary Committee on HB 175 - Religious Freedom and Civil Marriage Protection Act, HB 55 - Religious Freedom and Civil Marriage Protection Act, and HB 963 - Maryland's Marriage Protection Act.
WHO: David Rocah, Staff Atttorney, ACLU of Maryland; Melissa Goemann, Legislative Director, ACLU of Maryland. Rocah and Goemann will be available for media interviews.
WHEN: Hearing begins at 1 PM.
WHERE: House Office Building, 6 Bladen St., Annapolis, MD.
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