Gay marriage supporters plan NY Senate vote

ALBANY - New York's most influential advocates for gay rights say the chances are better than ever to legalize same-sex marriage, even in a Republican-controlled Senate.

The Empire State Pride Agenda said its count after the November elections showed a net gain of at least two votes for same-sex marriage. The group also said Senate Republican leader Dean Skelos has promised to bring the issue to the floor again.

A year ago the measure passed in the Assembly, but failed in the Senate by eight votes. In November, two senators who opposed gay marriage - Democrat William Stachowski of Erie County and Frank Padavan of Queens - lost re-election bids in part because of Empire Pride's efforts.

The organization insists, too, that several new legislators in the biggest freshman class in decades will likely vote for the measure, while those who opposed it in 2009 will see a wiser political course in 2011.

Democratic Governor-elect Andrew Cuomo also made gay marriage a significant element in his campaign.

"Senator Skelos said that, subject to a discussion with his conference, he would put the bill out for a vote," said Skelos spokesman Mark Hansen.- AP