Gay rights activists had high expectations for Governor Martin O'Malley. So far, they're feeling let down. 

O'Malley supports civil unions and said during his 2006 campaign that he wanted to extend benefits to same-sex partners of state employees. As Baltimore mayor, O'Malley did the same thing for city employees. 

But two legislative sessions into his term, neither of those changes have become a reality. And aides to the governor concede that because of the tight budget, benefits won't be granted to same-sex partners for at least another year. 

Equality Maryland director Dan Furmansky says gay rights activists are questioning why they worked so hard to elect O'Malley. 

But Republicans in the General Assembly say gay rights just aren't a priority for lawmakers, who have to confront a flagging economy. 

---
Information from: The (Baltimore) Sun

Email To A Friend