NM: 2011 Governor Likely to Veto Domestic Partnerships if Not Passed This Year

As a measure to give domestic partners many of the rights and privileges as married couples inches through the Legislature, supporters hope it becomes law this year - when Gov. Bill Richardson has said he will sign it. That's because New Mexico next year could have a governor who would veto it.

According to a survey of the six gubernatorial candidates, only Lt. Gov. Diane Denish would sign the measure should lawmakers approve. "I have fought to eliminate discrimination of any kind throughout my career and I support the domestic-partnership bill," said Denish, the only Democrat in the race. "This bill is about treating New Mexicans equally under the law. That means having the ability to take family medical leave when someone is sick, extending health insurance to your family, and making sure children are protected when a parent dies."

All five Republican candidates said they would oppose the measure, and several of them on Tuesday criticized the idea that Richardson would ask lawmakers to consider the measure in a year with such a budget crunch. Several also said they see the measure as a stepping stone to gay marriage.

Full Story from the Las Cruces Sun-News
Click here for gay marriage resources in New Mexico.
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