Maryland Senator May Support Marriage Equality Legislation

State Sen. James Brochin (D-Baltimore County) may alter his position on Maryland?s proposed marriage equality legislation. Though Brochin previously expressed opposition to marriage equality while supporting civil unions for all couples, he announced on Wednesday that he is reconsidering his stance. His announcement comes after a seven-hour hearing on the legislation held this Tuesday, during which Brochin said he found the testimony of the opposition particularly ?appalling.? Twenty-four votes are needed to pass the marriage equality bill in the Senate, and so far 20 Senators have committed to vote in approval. Brochin?s vote could prove crucial to the bill?s survival, as advocates say they are gathering more support. While Brochin has yet to declare his view, he said in his release on Wednesday, "For me, the transition to supporting marriage has not been an easy one, but the uncertainty, fear and second-class status that gays and lesbians have to put up with is far worse and clearly must come to an end."Related Media Coverage:The Washington Post - February 9, 2011"Brochin Reconsiders Same-Sex Marriage Opposition"http://voices.washingtonpost.com/annapolis/2011/02/brochin_reconsiders_stance_on.html

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