California lawmakers reject gay-nuptial bans

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) — Committees of state lawmakers Tuesday rejected a constitutional amendment that would ban gay marriages and strip away a long list of rights granted domestic partners in recent years.

The Assembly Judiciary Committee rejected an amendment offered by Republican Assemblyman Ray Haynes, who said the proposal would strengthen the intent of voters who approved a ballot measure five years ago that prevents the state from recognizing gay marriages performed elsewhere.

Hours later, the Senate Judiciary Committee voted against an identical measure.

Other laws already bar same-sex marriages from taking place in California.