Marriage ban proceeds in Texas

The Texas Senate Committee on State Affairs approved a bill Thursday that would bar the state from recognizing same-sex civil unions. The bill's sponsor, Sen. Jeff Wentworth, said he wants to protect traditional marriage as an institution fundamental to society. But Daniel Graney of San Antonio took offense to the bill. He said he and his partner of 29 years pay taxes, pay bills, vote, and live like any married couple, even though they can't get married. He says he finds the legislation offensive and hurtful. The Lesbian Gay Rights Lobby of Texas also urged lawmakers to vote against the legislation, saying Texas law already prohibits gays and lesbians from obtaining a marriage license in Texas.