Breaking: Hawaii Governor Schedules Special Session For Same-Sex Marriage Vote (Video)

Hawaii’s Democratic governor Neil Abercrombie has just announced minutes ago that he is calling the state legislature into special session next month to vote on a same-sex marriage bill. Democrats met with the governor late last week and seemed optimistic that Abercrombie would call the session. 

On October 28, the Hawaii legislature will vote, and licenses could be issued beginning November 18, per the Attorney General. The governor supports the legislation and will sign the bill.

Abercrombie in today’s press conference said he expects the bill to pass, and believes it will have a positive effect on the state’s economy.

Hawaii United for Marriage announced the news on their Facebook page.

“I’ve spent my entire life, politically, trying to find what’s the fairest thing to do”

— Neil Abercrombie (@neilabercrombie) September 9, 2013

The announcement was met with immediate positive responses from pro-equality groups and lawmakers.

“Legislators have reviewed the bill and no questions remain,” said Lois Perrin, ALCU Legal Director and a founding member of Hawaii United for Marriage. “We understand that political leaders are now ready to stand with the majority of Hawaii’s residents on the right side of history in passing marriage equality. The question of special session is no longer ‘if’ – it’s ‘when.’ When will we act to secure the rights and freedoms of our friends, family and neighbors?”

“I am glad that the Governor is looking to call a special session soon,” said Rep. Chris Lee, D-51. “If we delay to 2014, our state will become ground zero for mainland groups on both sides spending millions to influence Hawaii’s decision. A growing majority in Hawaii supports marriage equality and it really is about our local values of welcoming all in the true spirit of kindness and aloha.”

“As national polls reflect what we are seeing locally, it’s our hope that gay couples in Hawaii will soon gain the right to marry, and not have to wait another year or more as opponents continue to delay the inevitable,” said Jacce Mikulanec of Equality Hawaii. “Approving this measure during this special session will put Hawaii on the right side of history.”

Watch the press conference