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Maine lawmakers OK gay marriage; governor on fence

AUGUSTA, Maine — The Maine Legislature today gave final approval to gay marriage and sent the bill to an undecided governor.

The Senate voted for the bill today but not by enough votes to override a veto. Gov. John Baldacci has 10 days to decide whether to sign it.

The bill would make Maine the fifth state to allow gay marriage. Voters could still overturn the law in a referendum even if the governor signs it.

Four states allow same-sex marriages. Connecticut, Massachusetts and Iowa have been ordered by the courts to do so, and Connecticut has enacted a law codifying a court ruling.

Vermont passed a gay marriage law in April over the governor's objection.

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