More Than 100 People Testify At Gay Marriage Hearing

ANNAPOLIS, Md. (WJZ) -- Same-sex marriage gets a hearing in Annapolis and more than 100 witnesses showed up to testify.

Political reporter Pat Warren has more on the testimony.

It's a hot button issue this session and advocates of same-sex marriage are going all out to make their case.

At Tuesday's Senate hearing, those in favor of a bill allowing same-sex couples to marry in Maryland far outnumbered the people who are opposed.  Some, including the daughter of a same-sex couple, were full of passion.

"It makes me angry that my moms don't have the same rights.  You shouldn't have to be ashamed.  It makes me angry and hurt," said Maya.

But those opposed to the bill are as passionate in their belief of marriage defined as only between a man and a woman.

"I really believe children need a mother and a father and I don't want to be discriminated against for saying that or put down or whatever," said Ruby Wilson.

The bill is expected to raise as much debate between lawmakers as it does citizens, but the bill's sponsors believe its time has come.

"My feeling is we'll look back 10 years from now and wonder what all the fuss was about today," said Senator Rob Garagiola.

Others see it differently.

"In terms of persons, we don't discriminate...but marriage is different," said Rev. Nathaniel Thomas.

The Senate hearing is the first step.  It's not clear when the committee will vote, but if it passes, it will go to the Senate floor for a vote.  The House would also have to pass the bill and the governor would have to sign it before it becomes law.

If signed by the governor, it's expected there will be a referendum on the 2012 ballot giving voters a chance to decide.