Language in D.C. same-sex marriage bill is debated

WASHINGTON -- Take the terms "bride" and "groom" off D.C. marriage licenses and replace them with the word "spouse."

That's one change being suggested as supporters and opponents of a proposed bill to allow same-sex marriage in Washington take a hard look at the bill's language. The bill was introduced this month and had its first hearing in a City Council committee Monday. Part of the reason for the hearing is to rigorously examine the bill's language and propose changes.

Witnesses from a range of groups testified that they have concerns about some of the wording. The bill, which is expected to be voted on as early as December, would let same-sex couples from inside and outside the district marry in the city.

Among the concerns is language in the bill that's intended to ensure religious groups aren't forced to rent their space for same-sex ceremonies. The language says groups won't have to rent their space for same-sex ceremonies unless they make the space available to members of the general public.

The Catholic Archdiocese of Washington, however, says that the wording is problematic. It could mean it would have to stop letting groups like Alcoholics Anonymous use its space or stop running adoption and homeless programs -- which serve the general public -- if it wants to ensure same-sex couples couldn't use its space, said spokeswoman Susan Gibbs. Lawyers for the archdiocese proposed their own language.