CONCORD, N.H. (AP) — New Hampshire Gov. John Lynch says he will sign a bill to make his state the sixth to legalize gay marriage, but only if legislators make some changes.

Lynch told reporters of his decision Thursday, eight days after final passage by the Legislature. He was briefing them on what he wants changed.

As passed, the bill would allow churches to decide whether they will conduct religious marriages for same-sex couples. Civil marriages would be available to both heterosexual and same-sex couples.

Neighboring Maine and Vermont legalized gay marriage this spring, joining Massachusetts, Connecticut and Iowa. The only other New England state not committed to recognizing same-sex marriage is Rhode Island.


Only subscribers are eligible to post comments. Please subscribe or login first for digital access. Here’s why.

Use the form below to reset your password. When you've submitted your account email, we will send an email with a reset code.