Civil unions clear Colo. Legislature, head to gov

DENVER (AP) — Civil unions for gay couples were a rallying cry for Democrats who took control of the Colorado House in last year's elections and vowed an early vote on the proposal.

They kept their promise today, passing a bill giving gay couples rights similar to marriage that now goes to the governor's desk, where it's expected to be signed.

The vote punctuates a dramatic political shift in Colorado, where voters approved a gay-marriage ban seven years ago — meaning civil unions are the only option for gay couples in the state for now. That could change with a U.S. Supreme Court ruling on gay marriage bans in the coming months.

"We really do stand on the edge of history," said Democratic Rep. Pete Lee. "For some in this chamber, this is the reason why we are here."

Applause erupted in the Capitol as the bill won final passage today on a 39-26 House vote, with two Republicans joining all Democrats to approve the measure.

Democratic Gov. John Hickenlooper has said he plans to sign civil unions into law. It's not clear yet when that will happen, but the law will take effect May 1.