Brochin Throws Support Behind Same-Sex Marriage Bill

Sen. Jim Brochin said Thursday he will vote in favor of a bill that would legalize same-sex marriage in Maryland.

Brochin, a member of the Senate Judicial Proceedings Committee, said he was disturbed by testimony of opponents of the bill .

"I walked into committee and what I heard from the opposition to the bill was appalling," Brochin said. "It was disgusting. I heard that homosexuals and same-sex couples were androids. I heard that they were pedophiles. I just heard hate and venom coming out of that hearing for eight hours."

Previously, Brochin has opposed same-sex marriage bills. He cited use of the word "marriage" as a reason for his opposition.

The Democratic senator from Towson said this year he had planned on introducing an civil union amendment to the same-sex marriage bill. He said he still plans to offer that amendment.

"I know I don't have the votes for that amendment, and when the amendment fails, I am going to vote for gay marriage," Brochin said. "I'm going to vote for gay marriage because the stumbling block with the word 'marriage' is my stumbling block, and it's my problem."

"I'm not going to be part of the vilification of gays on the senate floor," Brochin said. "I'm uncomfortable with the word ;marriage; but I am much more uncomfortable with the vilification of gays and homosexuality."