The debate to permit gay marriage in Maryland scheduled during the morning of February 15 in the House of Delegates has been delayed until a special late-afternoon session of the full House, Reuters is reporting. The delay comes as uncertainly over whether proponents of the “Civil Marriage Protection Act” have the necessary 71 votes to advance to the state Senate.

The Maryland Senate passed comparable legislation last year, but failed in the House. Republicans were joined by a number of African-American Democrats who opposed the bill. Black lawmakers are attempted to be swayed by Democratic Gov. Martin O’Malley, a supporter of gay marriage. But many of the lawmakers are hesitant to support an issue opposed by much of he state’s black clergy.

The debate will occur during the same time as a vote scheduled in the New Jersey Assembly in Trenton. The New Jersey vote is focused on whether to allow same-sex marriage in that state. The New Jersey State Senate passed the “Marriage Equality and Religious Exemption Act” earlier in the week, and is expected to pass the Democratic-led lower house. However, the legislation faces a promised veto by New Jersey Republican Gov. Chris Christie, a Republican.

The two states’ legislations come after Washington state Gov. Christine Gregoire signed a similar bill on February 13. However, it won’t take effect until at least June, and opponents are working to gather signatures for a ballot initiative that would block the legislation.

Written by: Karen Benardello