The monthlong stalemate
in the New York state senate ended as abruptly as it began on
Thursday, when Sen. Pedro Espada Jr. announced his
return
to the Democratic caucus, forgoing an alliance with the
Republicans that split the chamber 31-31 and stalled the
passage of all legislation, including the marriage equality
bill. Under the arrangement that resolved the impasse,
Democrats will maintain the narrow 32-30 majority they held
before the leadership struggle erupted on June 8, with Espada
as their new majority leader.
While senators started
to pass long-delayed legislation as early as Thursday evening,
it remained unclear whether they would take up the marriage
equality bill anytime soon. The bill passed the assembly in May
and is supported by Gov. David Paterson.
Sen. Thomas K. Duane,
the openly gay Democrat who carries the marriage equality bill,
issued a statement on Thursday in which he said he expects the
senate this week will "pass only time-sensitive,
noncontroversial legislation."
"As disappointing as
it is to admit, it is clear that this week is not the right
moment for same-sex marriage legislation," Duane said.
"Senators need some time and distance to regroup after this
month's partisan-charged and explosive atmosphere. Before June
8th, senators from both sides of the aisle committed to me that
they would vote for marriage equality. I still believe this to
be the case. However, as I have said many times this session, I
will not gamble when civil rights are at stake. If this means a
short delay in order for marriage to become law it is well
worth the wait."
"The June 8th coup
may have delayed equality, but it will not stop it," said
Duane.
Click here to follow The Advocate on Twitter.
Page 1 of 1