Olszewski Vote Targeted For Same-Sex Marriage Bill

Proponents of a same-sex marriage bill could be looking in Baltimore County—specifically in Dundalk—for a vote needed to get the legislation passed this year.

State House observers say Del. John Olszewski Jr. may be close to a decision to vote for the bill this year.

Dels. Joseph "Sonny" Minnick and Mike Weir Jr. said Wednesday that they have not changed their opinion on the bill which was voted out of the House Health and Government Operations and Judiciary Committees Tuesday night.

A vote on the bill was delayed in the House Wednesday morning signalling that supporters are still a few votes short.

"You'll have to talk to someone else because Del. Weir and I remain opposed," said Minnick.

Last year Olszewski said was was opposed to the bill because it lacked protections for churches and religious organizations.

Gov. Martin O'Malley said his bill to legalize same-sex marriage now contains adequate protections for religious institutions who do not wish to perform the ceremonies.

Olszewski declined to comment Wednesday morning when asked if his position on same-sex marriage had changed.

A preliminary vote on the bill could come as early as Thursday.