Gay marriage approved in D.C.

WASHINGTON – The Washington, D.C., Council voted overwhelmingly Tuesday to legalize same-sex marriage, a key step in a process that could enable gay couples to marry in the nation’s capital by the spring.

After months of debate, the council passed the legislation 11 to 2.

A second vote, scheduled in two weeks, is necessary for the measure to become law. The bill’s sponsors said final passage is almost certain, although the bill could be tweaked. Democratic Mayor Adrian Fenty has said he will sign it.

The bill will also be subject to a 30-day congressional review period, but officials in both parties said it is unlikely that the Democratic majority in Congress will block the measure.

Washington, D.C., would join New Hampshire, Connecticut, Iowa, Vermont and Massachusetts in allowing same-sex marriage.