Gay marriage bill gets an extended run in NY

ALBANY, N.Y. (AP) — A coalition of gay rights advocates is demanding that New York’s Senate allow a vote on the legalization of gay marriage.

New Yorkers United for Marriage says it’s the Senate’s obligation to the people to allow a vote. Advocates had hoped for a vote days ago.

The Senate’s Republican majority is returning to closed-door meetings this morning, but has several other bills to consider first. The majority is expected to take on gay marriage later in the day.

Senate Republican leader Dean Skelos ended the latest marathon session just before 11 p.m. Thursday out of concerns for his members’ health.

The Senate has also directed all senators to use back hallways to avoid the constant presence of loud demonstrations from both sides. Several Republicans are well into their 70s.