RI lawmakers mull proposal to allow gay divorce
PROVIDENCE, R.I.—State lawmakers in Rhode Island are examining a proposal to allow same-sex couples married in other states to divorce in Rhode Island.
The House Judiciary Committee is scheduled to hold a hearing on the measure Wednesday.
Rhode Island does not recognize same-sex marriage, and it does not allow resident gay couples married in states like Massachusetts to file for divorce.
Supporters of the legislation say the state shouldn't force same-sex couples to leave the state to divorce. But opponents of gay marriage say the state can't grant a divorce if it doesn't recognize the marriage.
The committee is also scheduled to review legislation that would authorize same-sex couples to marry in Rhode Island. Similar legislation failed last year. Lawmakers voted instead to allow gay couples to enter into civil unions.
