CARNAL NATION

The Associated Press reports that the New Hampshire State House of Representatives voted today to legalize same-sex marriage. The bill, which narrowly passed by 186-179 votes, next goes to the Senate, where its future is uncertain. The Democratic governor, John Lynch, has gone on the record opposing same-sex marriage, but he has not indicated whether or not he would veto the bill if it also passes the Senate. The first attempt to pass the bill fell short by one vote. The House then reconsidered and passed the measure Thursday. Twelve House Republicans voted to pass the bill; 26 Democrats voted against it.

Earlier this week, a bill legalizing same-sex marriage passed the Vermont State Senate with an overwhelming 26-4 votes in favor of same-sex marriage. However, Vermont governor Jim Douglas announced on Wednesday afternoon that he will veto the bill.

Currently, Massachusetts and Connecticut allow gay marriage. The Maine legislature has also considered legalizing same-sex marriage. Five of New England's six states already offer same-sex couples some form of legal recognition, with New Hampshire and Vermont permitting same-sex civil unions that grant many of the same rights as married couples but lack the full legal protections of marriage.

[Editor's Note: The state motto of New Hampshire is "Live Free or Die."]