Unusual gay marriage bill advances in District of Columbia

On May 5, 2009, the District of Columbia Council approved legislation by a 12 to 1 vote which recognizes same-sex marriages if they are performed in another jurisdiction.  The legislation, however, does not authorize same-sex marriages to take place in D.C.

After Mayor Adrian Fenty signs the bill (assuming he does), the United States Congress has 30 days to review the bill.  Congress can overturn this legislation by a vote of both the Senate and House of Representatives followed by President Obama’s signature.