Live Blog: Same-Sex Marriage in Hawaii

November 7, 2013

Diane Lee, Christine Hitt,

The Hawaii State Legislature is considering a proposal to legalize gay marriage in the state. More than 5,100 people signed up to testify at the Hawaii State Capitol. Keep checking back for live updates from the Capitol. Read our previous coverage here.

HIGHLIGHTS

Nov. 13, 2013

Hawaii governor signs same-sex marriage legislation into law

Photo: Diane Lee

Today Gov. Neil Abercrombie signed the Hawaii Marriage Equality bill into law, making the Aloha State the 15th state to allow gay couples to legally wed.

At the Hawaii Convention Center's Liliu Theater, the governor signed the measure with a koa pen in front of a crowd of about 200 invited guests and state lawmakers.

"I intend to give this pen, that signs this bill on this day, to Justice [Steven] Levinson," Abercombie says. The crowd screamed with joy.

A retired Hawaii Supreme Court Justice, Levinson wrote the 1993 Baehr v. Lewin decision that denying same-sex partners the right to marry violated the state constitution.

11:15 a.m.

"Done!" Abercrombie says, after signing SB1 HD1. The crowd goes wild, cheering and clapping.

Photo: Diane Lee

10:22 a.m.

An emotional Sen. Clayton Hee pauses and chokes up at the podium. The crowd applauds. "I've been telling people my role in this journey has been a small one and an important one. But it's weight is beginning to rest on me," Hee says.

"Someday as the song 'Imagine' depicts the world will accept all of us for who we are," Hee says. "I could never imagine to have played a small role in a profound, yet in my mind, a simple thing to do: bring justice and equality to all."

Photo: Diane Lee

10:10 a.m.

Hawaiian singers Amy Hanaialii and Willie K. reunited for a performance together—the first time in 10 years. "We're kinda out of practice," Willie K. joked. At the ceremony, they sang an emotional mashup of "Imagine" and "Somewhere Over the Rainbow." After the performance, someone shouted "Thank you—that was beautiful!" Willie K. shouted back, "You're welcome!" The crowd laughed out loud.

10 a.m.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie arrives.

Mostly supporters, including Equality Hawaii, Pride Alliance Hawaii and Hawaii United for Marriage, attended the invitation-only gathering.

Photo: Diane Lee

Kumu Hina and Brad Lum at the gathering.

Photo: Diane Lee

Sen. Clayton Hee, Sen. Chris Lee, Gov. Neil Abercrombie and Sen. Brickwood Galuteria.

PHoto: Diane Lee

9:34 a.m.

A K-9 Unit sniffed the purses, bags and camera equipment of guests upon entering the Hawaii Convention Center's Liliu Theater.

Nov. 12, 2013

4:43 p.m.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie is scheduled to hold a bill signing ceremony for SB1 HD1, 10 a.m. tomorrow at the Hawaii Convention Center's Liliu Theater (Room 310). The event is not open to the public (by invitation only).

You can watch a live stream online at governor.hawaii.gov. And, of course, we'll be at the ceremony so check back here for updates.

1 p.m.

The crowd reacts to the announcement of the vote.

Photos: Michael Keany

12:59 p.m.

The Senate voted 19-4 (2 excused) to approve same-sex marriage legislation.

Here's a breakdown of the votes:

19 Senators voted yes:

Sen. Rosalyn Baker (D-South and West Maui)
Sen. Suzanne Chun Oakland (D-Liliha, Palama, Iwilei, Kalihi, Nuuanu, Pacific Heights, Pauoa, Lower Tantalus, Downtown)
Sen. Kalani English (D-Hana, East and Upcountry Maui, Molokai, Lanai, Kahoolawe)
Sen. Will Espero (D-Ewa Beach, Ocean Pointe, Ewa by Gentry, Iroquois Point, portion of Ewa Villages)
Sen. Brickwood Galuteria (D-Waikiki, Ala Moana, Kakaako, McCully, Moiliili)
Sen. Josh Green (D-Kona, Kau)
Sen. Clayton Hee (D-Kaneohe , Kaaawa, Hauula, Laie, Kahuku, Waialua, Haleiwa, Wahiawa, Schofield Barracks, Kunia)
Sen. David Ige (D-Pearl City, Momilani, Pearlridge, Aiea, Royal Summit, Aiea Heights, Newtown, Waimalu, Halawa, Pearl Harbor)
Sen. Les Ihara, Jr. (D-Kaimuki, Kapahulu, Palolo, Maunalani Heights, St. Louis Heights, Moiliili, Ala Wai)
Sen. Gilbert Keith-Agaran (D-Wailuku, Waihee, Kahului)
Sen. Michelle Kidani (D-Mililani Town, portion of Waipio Gentry, Waikele, Village Park, Royal Kunia)
Sen. Clarence Nishihara (D-Waipahu, Crestview, Manana, Pearl City, Pacific Palisades)
Sen. Russell Ruderman (D-Puna, Kau)
Sen. Maile Shimabukuro (D-Kalaeloa, Honokai Hale, Ko Olina, Nanakuli, Maili, Waianae, Makaha, Makua)
Sen. Malama Solomon (D-Hilo, Hamakua, Kohala, Waimea, Waikoloa, Kona)
Sen. Brian Taniguichi (D-Manoa, Makiki, Punchbowl, Papakolea)
Sen. Laura Thielen (D-Kailua, Lanikai, Enchanted Lake, Keolu Hills, Maunawili, Waimanalo, Hawaii Kai, Portlock)
Sen. Jill Tokuda (D-Kaneohe, Kaneohe MCAB, Kailua, Heeia, Ahuimanu)
Sen. Glenn Wakai (D-Kalihi, Mapunapuna, Airport, Salt Lake, Aliamanu, Foster Village, Hickam, Pearl Harbor)

4 Senators voted no:

Sen. Mike Gabbard (D-Kapolei, Makakilo, and portions of Ewa, Kalaeloa, and Waipahu)
Sen. Donna Mercado Kim (D-Kapalama, Alewa, Kalihi Valley, Ft. Shafter, Moanalua Gardens & Valley, portions of Halawa and Aiea)
Sen. Ronald Kouchi (D-Kauai, Niihau)
Sen. Sam Slom (R-Hawaii Kai, Kuliouou, Niu, Aina Haina, Waialae-Kahala, Diamond Head)

2 Senators were excused:

Sen. Donovan Dela Cruz (D-Mililani Mauka, Waipio Acres, Wheeler, Wahiawa, Whitmore Village, portion of Poamoho)
Sen. Brian Taniguichi (D-Manoa, Makiki, Punchbowl, Papakolea)

The measure now awaits the governor's signature. Here are statements from Gov. Neil Abercrombie and President Barack Obama regarding the legislation's passage.

Check back later for more details.

12:23 p.m.

There's a smaller crowd in the senate chamber today. No chanters outside. A final vote could come shortly.

12:01 p.m.

Sen. Sam Slom speaks in opposition.

11:34 a.m.

Two men walk back and forth along Beretania Street, while holding up competing signs.

Photo: Michael Keany

11:15 a.m.

Sen. Clayton Hee rises in support.

10:34 a.m.

The Senate is discussing same-sex marriage legislation.

Nov. 10, 2013

3:24 p.m.

When the full Senate reviews the measure on Tuesday, don't expect the session to drag on for days like the House.

Here's the latest: Hawaii Senate leader plans to agree on House's version of same-sex marriage bill

Nov. 8, 2013

10:46 p.m.

The scene outside after the vote:

Photo: Jason Ubay

For more scenes from the Capitol, see our photo gallery.

10:08 p.m.

The House passes SB1 HD1 on third reading with 30 yeas and 19 nos (2 excused). Here's a breakdown of the votes:

30 House members voted yes:

Rep. Della Au Belatti (D-Makiki, Tantalus, Papakolea, McCully, Pawaa, Manoa)
Rep. Tom Brower (D-Waikiki, Ala Moana)
Rep. Denny Coffman (D-Naalehu, Ocean View, Capt. Cook, Kealakekua, Kailua-Kona)
Rep. Cindy Evans (D-North Kona, North Kohala, South Kohala)
Rep. Faye Hanohano (D-Puna)
Rep. Mark Hashem (D-Hahaione, Kuliouou, Niu Valley, Aina Haina, Waialae, Kahala)
Rep. Linda Ichiyama (D-Moanalua Valley, Salt Lake, Aliamanu)
Rep. Kaniela Ing (D-Kihei, Wailea, Makena)
Rep. Derek Kawakami (D-Hanalei, Princeville, Kilauea, Anahola, Kapaa, Wailua)
Rep. Bertrand Kobayashi (D-Waialae Kahala, Diamond Head, Kaimuki, Kapahulu)
Rep. Chris Lee (D-Kailua, Waimanalo)
Rep. Nicole Lowen (D-Kailua-Kona, Holualoa, Kalaoa, Honokohau)
Rep. Sylvia Luke (D-Makiki, Punchbowl, Nuuanu, Dowsett Highlands, Pacific Heights, Pauoa)
Rep. Angus McKelvey (D-West Maui, Maalaea, North Kihei)
Rep. John Mizuno (D-Kalihi Valley, Kamehameha Heights, portion of Lower Kalihi)
Rep. Dee Morikawa (D-Niihau, Lehua, Koloa, Waimea)
Rep. Mark Nakashima (D-Hamakua, North Hilo, South Hilo)
Rep. Scott Nishimoto (D-Kapahulu, McCully, Moiliili)
Rep. Takashi Ohno (D-Nuuanu, Liliha, Puunui, Alewa Heights)
Rep. Richard Onishi (D-Hilo, Keaau, Kurtistown, Volcano)
Rep. Karl Rhoads (D-Kalihi, Palama, Iwilei, Chinatown)
Rep. Scott Saiki (D-McCully, Kaheka, Kakaako, Downtown)
Rep. Calvin Say (D-St. Louis Heights, Palolo, Maunalani Heights, Wilhelmina Rise, Kaimuki)
Rep. Mark Takai (D-Aiea)
Rep. Gregg Takayama (D-Pearl City, Waimalu, Pacific Palisades)
Rep. Roy Takumi (D- Pearl City, Manana, Waipio)
Rep. Cynthia Thielen (R-Kailua, Kaneohe Bay)
Rep. Jessica Wooley (D-Kaneohe, Heeia, Ahuimanu, Kahaluu, Haiku Valley, Mokuoloe)
Rep. Kyle Yamashita (D-Sprecklesville, Pukalani, Makawao, Kula, Keokea, Ulupalakua, Kahului)
Rep. Joseph Souki (D- Kahakuloa, Waihee, Waiehu, Puuohala, Wailuku, and Waikapu)

19 House members voted no:

Rep. Henry Aquino (D-Waipahu)
Rep. Karen Awana (D-Ewa Villages, Kalaeloa, Honokai Hale, Nanakai Gardens, Ko Olina, Kahe Point, Nanakuli, Lualualei, Maili)
Rep. Romy Cachola (D-Sand Island, Mokauea, Kapalama, Kalihi Kai)*
Rep. Mele Carroll (D-Haiku, Hana, Kaupo, Kipahulu, Nahiku, Paia, Kahoolawe, Molokini, Lanai, Molokai, Molokini)
Rep. Ty Cullen (D-Royal Kunia, Village Park, Waipahu, Makakilo, West Loch)
Rep. Richard Fale (R-Waialua, Haleiwa, Pupukea, Kahuku, Laie, Hauula, Waiahole, Sunset Beach, Punaluu, Kaaawa)
Rep. Beth Fukumoto (R-Mililani Mauka, Mililani)
Rep. Sharon Har (D-Kapolei, Makakilo)
Rep. Ken Ito (D-Kaneohe, Maunawili, Olomana)
Rep. Aaron Ling Johanson (R-Moanalua, Red Hill, Foster Village, Aiea, Fort Shafter, Moanalua Gardens, Aliamanu, Lower Pearlridge)
Rep. Jo Jordan (D-Waianae, Makaha, Makua, Maili)
Rep. Lauren Kealohilani Matsumoto Cheape (R-Schofield, Mokuleia, Waialua, Kunia, Waipio Acres, Mililani)
Rep. Bob McDermott (R-Ewa, Ewa Beach, Ewa Gentry, Iroquois Point)
Rep. Marcus Oshiro (D-Wahiawa, Whitmore Village)
Rep. James Kunane Tokioka (D-Wailua Homesteads, Hanamaulu, Lihue, Puhi, Old Koloa Town, Omao)
Rep. Clift Tsuji (D-Keaukaha, parts of Hilo, Panaewa, Waiakea)
Rep. Gene Ward (R-Hawaii Kai, Kalama Valley)
Rep. Justin Woodson (D-Kahului, Puunene, Old Sand Hills, Maui Lani)
Rep. Ryan Yamane (D-Mililani, Waipio Gentry, Waikele)

2 House members were excused:

Rep. Rida Cabanilla (D-Ewa Villages, Ewa Beach, Ewa Gentry, Ocean Pointe, West Loch)
Rep. Isaac Choy (D-Manoa, Punahou, University, Moiliili)

*Note: Rep. Romy Cachola is the only lawmaker to change his vote. He went from "excused" during second reading to "no" during third reading.

The proposal now moves to the Senate for final consideration. Because the House committees made changes to the original draft, the measure returns to the Senate for review and final approval. The Senate will need to agree or disagree with the changes. If approved, the proposal will be sent to the governor for his signature. If the Senate disagrees, then a conference committee will be formed to negotiate the differences between the House and Senate.

Session begins 10 a.m., Tuesday, Nov. 12 in the Senate chambers. The Senate's floor session will be broadcast live on Olelo (channel 55) and streamed online. If you're planning to attend session at the Capitol, then get there early. Doors will open approximately 9:30 a.m.

9:34 p.m.

Rep. Marcus Oshiro asks, "What's the rush?" to pass the measure. "There's still time to fix the bill. There is no need to rush," he says.

8:52 p.m.

"I am sorry to say, I am still in opposition to SB1," Rep. Jo Jordan says.

8:21 p.m.

Rep. Richard Fale just told his supporters outside to keep quiet for 15 minutes to allow the opposition to speak in peace.

Shortly after, Fale tells the legislative body he planned to bring dog food to the chamber. He calls the special session, "A Dog and Pony Show."

7:50 p.m.

Rep. Karen Awana says she's against the measure.

Rep. Kaniela Ing says, "It is the right thing to do." He adds, "I agree with Macklemore—it's the Same Love."

7:08 p.m.

Rep. Chris Lee says he rises in support.

6:58 p.m.

House members are delivering their final remarks on the measure, before a final vote.

Here's the scene outside the chambers:

Photos: Michael Keany

6:03 p.m.

A final vote on SB1 HD1 is expected shortly.

5:35 p.m.

House is now discussing floor amendment 29. Looks like the last one.

5:05 p.m.

The House just shot down floor amendment 25.

4:44 p.m.

The House rejects Rep. Marcus Oshiro's floor amendment 22.

4:25 p.m.

The chanting continues.

4:06 p.m.

The House is discussing amendment 21. (We're told the amendments are not available online for the public to see.)

3:46 p.m.

The House is going through 17 amendments. We are on the seventh of 17 amendments.

3:37 p.m.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie is in the House! Half of the room cheers, while the other half "boos" him and breaks into chanting, "Let the people vote!"

2:53 P.m.

Happening outside the Capitol.

2:50 p.m.

Gay marriage opponents stopped chanting. They gathered in the Capitol routunda to sing, God Is Love.

Gay marriage supporters gather outside to sing, Israel Kamakawiwoole's Somewhere Over the Rainbow.

Kumu Hina, above, tells gay marriage supporters: "You can yell and chant and scream all you like, but we are here and we will not go away. We will not roll over."

Hina adds, "I'm so totally insulted by the use of the Hawaiian flag to promote that agenda." Someone shouts, "Thank you!"

2:46 p.m.

Lawmakers haven't returned to the House floor yet.

1:39 p.m.

House members went to lunch, then they'll caucus at 1:45 p.m.

In the meantime, read our exclusive interview with Rep. Jo Jordan on why she voted against same-sex marriage legislation.

12:01 p.m.

"Mr. Speaker, you've already got 30 votes, so you don't need my vote," Rep. Bob McDermott says.

Shortly after, Rep. Ward's floor amendment is rejected.

11:30 a.m.

Rep. Gene Ward introduces Amendment 15. He expresses concern for the "momma bears" and "poppa bears." “The momma bears are demanding, 'Protect our kids,'" he says.

During the middle of Ward's speech, the gavel comes down. The House speaker cuts off Ward's microphone, because a recess has been called.

"Recess is out of order," Ward says.

Rep. Joe Souki and other lawmakers confront Ward about the House rules.

11:37 p.m.

Floor Amendment 14 has failed.

11:15 p.m.

They're back. Rep. Richard Fale requests a task force to study the social and economical impacts of same-sex marriage in Hawaii, before taking legislative action.

11:07 a.m.

The House is in recess. Inside the House chamber, you can hear people outside chanting, "Let the people vote!" Gay marriage supporters are waiting to get inside.

9:53 a.m.

Sign wavers gathered along Beretania Street hours before the start of session.

Nov. 7, 2013

4:30 p.m.

Tomorrow, opponents and supporters of same-sex marriage will be divided, literally, at the state Capitol. In the past few days, people on both sides of the issue have been confrontational.

"We're going to minimize the ability to interact or possibly have conflicts between each other," says Kevin Kuroda, House sergeant-at-arms.

If you're planning to visit, then here are a few security measures you should know about.

Capitol rotunda: Supporters will have a dedicated section on the mauka side. Opponents will have a dedicated section on the makai side.
House gallery: Seating will be split in half. Supporters will sit on one side, while opponents will sit on the other side. There will be separate entrances into the chamber for respective groups.
Beretania Street: Opponents will have space dedicated for sign waving starting from the Father Damien statue to Punchbowl Street. Supporters will have space to sign wave starting from the Father Damien statue to downtown Honolulu.

American Civil Liberties Union's Lois Perrin asks visitors to stay calm regardless of tomorrow's decision.

"I would hope that whatever the vote is that people will conduct themselves in an appropriate manner," she says.

2:41 p.m.

The full House is expected to take a final vote on SB1 HD1 tomorrow, Nov. 8 in the House chambers.

Oahu residents can catch the floor session live on community television (Channel 54) or online (olelo.org) starting at 10 a.m.

For neighbor island residents, contact the following community television stations:

Kauai: Hoike Community Television, hoike.org, (808) 246-1556, no web-streaming available.
Maui: Akaku-Maui Community Television, akaku.org, (808) 871-5554, web-streaming available.
Big Island: Na Leo O Hawaii, naleo.tv, (808) 935-8874 (Hilo) or (808) 329-9617 (Kailua-Kona), web-streaming available.

Nov. 6, 2013

9 p.m.

Shortly after the vote, Reps. Jo Jordan, Marcus Oshiro, Sharon Har and Richard Fale greeted people chanting outside.

Rep. Fale told the crowd through a megaphone, "We have a lot of work to do." He told his supporters to show up at the Capitol on Thursday to voice their opinions to legislators at their offices.

Meanwhile, gay marriage supporters formed a circle and sang, Amazing Grace.

8:55 p.m.

House lawmakers voted 30-18 (3 excused) to approve SB HD1. Here’s a breakdown of the votes:

30 House members voting yes:

Rep. Della Au Belatti (D-Makiki, Tantalus, Papakolea, McCully, Pawaa, Manoa)
Rep. Tom Brower (D-Waikiki, Ala Moana)
Rep. Denny Coffman (D-Naalehu, Ocean View, Capt. Cook, Kealakekua, Kailua-Kona)
Rep. Cindy Evans (D-North Kona, North Kohala, South Kohala)
Rep. Faye Hanohano (D-Puna)
Rep. Mark Hashem (D-Hahaione, Kuliouou, Niu Valley, Aina Haina, Waialae, Kahala)
Rep. Linda Ichiyama (D-Moanalua Valley, Salt Lake, Aliamanu)
Rep. Kaniela Ing (D-Kihei, Wailea, Makena)
Rep. Derek Kawakami (D-Hanalei, Princeville, Kilauea, Anahola, Kapaa, Wailua)
Rep. Bertrand Kobayashi (D-Waialae Kahala, Diamond Head, Kaimuki, Kapahulu)
Rep. Chris Lee (D-Kailua, Waimanalo)
Rep. Nicole Lowen (D-Kailua-Kona, Holualoa, Kalaoa, Honokohau)
Rep. Sylvia Luke (D-Makiki, Punchbowl, Nuuanu, Dowsett Highlands, Pacific Heights, Pauoa)
Rep. Angus McKelvey (D-West Maui, Maalaea, North Kihei)
Rep. John Mizuno (D-Kalihi Valley, Kamehameha Heights, portion of Lower Kalihi)
Rep. Dee Morikawa (D-Niihau, Lehua, Koloa, Waimea)
Rep. Mark Nakashima (D-Hamakua, North Hilo, South Hilo)
Rep. Scott Nishimoto (D-Kapahulu, McCully, Moiliili)
Rep. Takashi Ohno (D-Nuuanu, Liliha, Puunui, Alewa Heights)
Rep. Richard Onishi (D-Hilo, Keaau, Kurtistown, Volcano)
Rep. Karl Rhoads (D-Kalihi, Palama, Iwilei, Chinatown)
Rep. Scott Saiki (D-McCully, Kaheka, Kakaako, Downtown)
Rep. Calvin Say (D-St. Louis Heights, Palolo, Maunalani Heights, Wilhelmina Rise, Kaimuki)
Rep. Mark Takai (D-Aiea)
Rep. Gregg Takayama (D-Pearl City, Waimalu, Pacific Palisades)
Rep. Roy Takumi (D- Pearl City, Manana, Waipio)
Rep. Cynthia Thielen (R-Kailua, Kaneohe Bay)
Rep. Jessica Wooley (D-Kaneohe, Heeia, Ahuimanu, Kahaluu, Haiku Valley, Mokuoloe)
Rep. Kyle Yamashita (D-Sprecklesville, Pukalani, Makawao, Kula, Keokea, Ulupalakua, Kahului)
Rep. Joseph Souki (D- Kahakuloa, Waihee, Waiehu, Puuohala, Wailuku, and Waikapu)

18 House members voting no:

Rep. Henry Aquino (D-Waipahu)
Rep. Karen Awana (D-Ewa Villages Kalaeloa, Honokai Hale, Nanakai Gardens, Ko Olina, Kahe Point, Nanakuli, Lualualei, Maili)
Rep. Mele Carroll (D-Haiku, Hana, Kaupo, Kipahulu, Nahiku, Paia, Kahoolawe, Molokini, Lanai, Moloka'i, Molokini)
Rep. Ty Cullen (D-Royal Kunia, Village Park, Waipahu, Makakilo, West Loch)
Rep. Richard Fale (R-Waialua, Haleiwa, Pupukea, Kahuku, Laie, Hauula, Waiahole, Sunset Beach, Punaluu, Kaaawa)
Rep. Beth Fukumoto (R-Mililani Mauka, Mililani)
Rep. Sharon Har (D-Kapolei, Makakilo)
Rep. Ken Ito (D-Kaneohe, Maunawili, Olomana)
Rep. Aaron Ling Johanson (R-Moanalua, Red Hill, Foster Village, Aiea, Fort Shafter, Moanalua Gardens, Aliamanu, Lower Pearlridge)
Rep. Jo Jordan (D-Waianae, Makaha, Makua, Maili)
Rep. Lauren Kealohilani Matsumoto Cheape (R-Schofield, Mokuleia, Waialua, Kunia, Waipio Acres, Mililani)
Rep. Bob McDermott (R-Ewa, Ewa Beach, Ewa Gentry, Iroquois Point)
Rep. Marcus Oshiro (D-Wahiawa, Whitmore Village)
Rep. James Kunane Tokioka (D-Wailua Homesteads, Hanamaulu, Lihue, Puhi, Old Koloa Town, Omao)
Rep. Clift Tsuji (D-Keaukaha, parts of Hilo, Panaewa, Waiakea)
Rep. Gene Ward (R-Hawaii Kai, Kalama Valley)
Rep. Justin Woodson (D-Kahului, Puunene, Old Sand Hills, Maui Lani)
Rep. Ryan Yamane (D-Mililani, Waipio Gentry, Waikele)

3 House members excused:

Rep. Rida Cabanilla (D-Ewa Villages, Ewa Beach, Ewa Gentry, Ocean Pointe, West Loch)
Rep. Romy Cachola (D-Sand Island, Mokauea, Kapalama, Kalihi Kai)
Rep. Isaac Choy (D-Manoa, Punahou, University, Moiliili)

The final House vote is set for 10 a.m., Friday, Nov. 8. Go get some rest on Thursday!

8:51 p.m.

Rep. Marcus Oshiro reveals as an attorney he has a potential conflict of interest by voting on the bill.

Shortly after, Rep. Kaniela Ing reveals he also has a potential conflict of interest: "I am a straight man voting on a gay marriage bill." The audience laughs out loud.

8:48 p.m.

"I respectfully stand in opposition," Har says. The crowd claps.

8:45 p.m.

Rep. Sharon Har says, "Since 1997, the public hasn't had a chance to weigh in on same-sex marriage." She asks the House speaker to allow the people to weigh in on the issue.

8:35 p.m.

We're told that the people outside stopped chanting loudly, because some of them are watching the House floor debate on the television sets outside.

Here's a photo inside:

8:25 p.m.

A lawmaker asks House Speaker Joe Souki whether the bill's third reading will be broadcasted on Olelo. Souki's response: "Yes, third reading will be televised on Olelo."

8:02 p.m.

Rep. Richard Fale asks for an extension to review the bill. "This isn't the way we do things in Hawaii. We don't divide people," he says.

7:59 p.m.

Rep. Gene Ward says he rises in opposition. "Speaker, when this bill passes, Hawaii will never be the same just as it happened after 9/11." He adds, "Be a peacemaker, not a divider." The crowd claps.

7:50 p.m.

Rep. Jo Jordan says she will be voting against something she personally believes in. "You know how hard it is for me to say no? I have to say no."

7:40 p.m.

Motion to postpone defeated.

7:36 p.m.

Representatives are debating on reasons for postponing the bill indefinitely. Outside, people are chanting, "Kill the bill!"

7:30 p.m.

Rep. Sharon Har says she supports motion to postpone the bill indefinitely.

7:20 p.m.

Rep. Della Au Belatti speaks in support of the measure. "Justice delayed is justice denied," she says.

7:19 p.m.

Rep. Sharon Har says people have testified that the government can't be trusted and rushing through the session would only lead to further government distrust. She asks why lawmakers aren't listening to the people chanting outside.

7:09 p.m.

Rep. Marcus Oshiro agrees. He says there is still time for a regular session.

7:00 P.m.

Rep. Bob. McDermott asks to postpone the vote indefinitely. "Mr. Speaker, they are not happy as best as I can tell, so I ask that we postpone this indefinitely," he says.

6:54 p.m.

Rep. John Mizuno says they will be voting on SB1 now.

6:28 p.m.

That was quick. Amendment 12 just failed.

6:21 p.m.

Rep. Gene Ward has introduced amendment 12.

5:43 p.m.

Lawmakers are continuing to discuss changes to SB1. People outside are still chanting. It's unclear whether outside chanters realize that the constitutional amendment has failed.

5:05 p.m.

Crowds outside continue to chant, while representatives debate changes to the legislation.

The House voted down 28-19 (4 excused) the constitutional amendment to put the same-sex measure on the ballot. Shortly after the vote, some people sitting in the gallery started chanting, "Let the people vote!"

4:38 p.m.

Rep. Richard Fale on the House floor.

4:35 p.m.

Rep. Richard Fale and Rep. Sharon Har asks House members to listen to the people and let them vote on same-sex marriage.

The House is in recess again.

3:09 p.m.

The audience cheers when Rep. Richard Fale entered the chamber floor.

2:52 p.m.

House lawmakers went to lunch. They'll go into caucus at 3 p.m. when they return. A vote could follow. If approved, the legislation would need to sit 48 hours. At the earliest, lawmakers could take a final vote Friday.

Earlier, Rep. Marcus Oshiro introduced floor amendments to SB1, which were all voted down.

1:30 P.m.

Christine Hitt started livestream: http://livestre.am/4FPmw
Representatives are voting on legislative amendments.

1:33 p.m.

The House is in recess.

1:02 p.m.

House lawmakers are discussing the language of the legislation. The chanting is audible even from inside the chamber.

12:29 p.m.

The House is back in session. At the House speaker's orders, security guards are refusing to let people to enter the chamber. They say the noise is too loud.

12:23 p.m.

A gay marriage opponent dances a prayer in the Capitol rotunda.

12 p.m.

Church groups and gay marriage supporters gathered in front of the state Capitol.

During one minister's speech, people surrounded gay marriage supporters and started chanting, "Let the people vote!" Gay marriage opponents continued to chant, while gay marriage supporters held hands and sang, Amazing Grace.

11:58 A.M.

People stopped chanting. There's a lot of whistling and cheering outside the House chamber. We're still waiting for House members to return to the floor.

11:24 a.m.

People are waiting in the gallery. Lawmakers haven't returned yet.

11:09 a.m.

There's a line snaking outside the House chamber. People are still waiting for House lawmakers to return.

10:39 A.M.

People standing outside the House chamber are chanting, "Let the people vote!"

10:30 a.m.

Scott and Wendy Kick joined gay marriage supporters to wave signs along Beretania Street. They arrived at 9 a.m. "I'm feeling great; A bit sweaty, but I have a lot of energy because it is such an important cause to me," Wendy Kick says.

10:16 A.M.

House recesses until 11 a.m.

Nov. 5, 2013

7:04 p.m.

Check back for more updates. Read Hawaii House committee pass bill to legalize gay marriage, moves to full House.

6:35 p.m.

People start chanting, "Let the people vote!"

6:32 p.m.

In the Capitol rotunda, Rep. Richard Fale tells the crowd, "We are not defeated!"

6:26 p.m.

The crowd inside the House chamber erupts into excitement.

6:21 p.m.

In the House chamber, Rep. Karl Rhoads says due to last minute changes to SB1, the House will resume session at 10 a.m. tomorrow, Nov. 6.

6 p.m.

House Committee on Finance chairwoman Sylvia Luke and House Committee on Judiciary chairman Karl Rhoads meets with reporters. Rep. Sylvia Luke says they introduced changes to the proposal due to concerns expressed by representatives and people who testified. After taking in testimonies, Luke and Rhoads says they prolonged deliberations to allow lawmakers more time to "digest" the updated legislation.

5:40 p.m.

The House will be meeting for a brief session at 6 p.m., then will recess.

5:36 p.m.

The House Committees on Finance and Judiciary voted 18-12 to approve an amended SB1, which now moves to full House for a vote. Here's a breakdown of the votes:

10 Finance committee members voting yes:

Rep. Sylvia Luke (D-Makiki, Punchbowl, Nuuanu, Dowsett, Highlands, Pacific Heights, Pauoa)
Rep. Scott Nishimoto (D-Kapahulu, McCully, Moiliili)
Rep. Mark Hashem (D-Hahaione, Kuliouou, Niu Valley, Aina Haina, Waialae, Kahala)
Rep. Kaniela Ing (D-Makena, Wailea, Kihei)
Rep. Bertrand Kobayashi (D-Waialae, Kahala, Diamond Head, Kaimuki, Kapahulu)
Rep. Nicole Lowen (D-Kailua-Kona, Holualoa, Kalaoa, Honokohau)
Rep. Dee Morikawa (D-Niihau, Lehua, Waimea, Koloa)
Rep. Richard Onishi (D-Hilo, Keaau, Kurtistown, Pahala, Honoapu, Volcano)
Rep. Gregg Takayama (D-Pearl City, Waimalu, Pacific Palasades)
Rep. Kyle Yamashita (D-Pukalani, Makawao, Spreckelsville, Keokea, Kahului, Kula, Ulupalakua)

7 Finance committee members voting no:

Rep. Aaron Ling Johanson (R-Red Hill, Foster Village, Aiea, Fort Shafter, Moanalua Gardens, Aliamanu, Lower Pearlridge, Moanalua)
Rep. Ty J.K. Cullen (D-Royal Kunia, Village Park, Waipahu, Makakilo, West Loch
Rep. Jo Jordan (D-Waianae, Makaha, Makua, Maili)
Rep. James Kunane Tokioka (D-Wailua Homesteads, Hanamaulu, Lihue, Puhi, Old Koloa Town, Omao)
Rep. Justin Woodson (D-Kahului, Puunene, Old Sand Hills, Maui Lani)
Rep. Beth Fukumoto (R-Mililani Mauka, Mililani)
Rep. Gene Ward (R-Hawaii Kai, Kalama Valley)

8 Judiciary committee members voting yes:

Rep. Karl Rhoads (D-Kalihi, Palama, Iwilei, Chinatown)
Rep. Della Au Belatti (D-Makiki, Tantalus, Papkolea, McCully, Pawaa, Manoa)
Rep. T0m Brower (D-Waikiki, Ala Moana)
Rep. Denny Coffman (D-Naalehu, Ocean View, Capt. Cook, Kealakekua, Kailua-Kona)
Rep. Derek Kawakami (D-Hanalei, Princeville, Kilauea, Anahola, Wailua, Kapaa)
Rep. Chris Lee (D-Kailua, Waimanalo)
Rep. Jessica Wooley (D-Haiku Valley, Kahaluu, Heeia, Ahuimanu, Mokuoloe, Kaneohe)
Rep. Cynthia Henry Thielen (R-Kailua, Kaneohe Bay)

5 Judiciary committee members voting no:

Rep. Sharon Har (D-Kapolei, Makakilo)
Rep. Mele Carroll (D-Kahoolawe, Molokini, Lanai, Molokai, Haiku, Kaupo, Kipahulu, Paia, Nahiku, Hana)
Rep. Ken Ito (D-Maunawili, Kaneohe, Olomana)
Rep. Clift Tsuji (D-Keaukaha, parts of Hilo, Panaewa, Waiakea)
Rep. Bob McDermott (R-Ewa, Ewa Beach, Ewa Gentry, Iroquois Point)

5:08 P.m.

People were emotional. Some even cried. Those sitting in the back row used their smartphones to film lawmakers' speeches.

4:24 p.m.

Rep. Karl Rhoads recommends to move the legislation forward with three significant amendments:

Expanding religious exemptions based on Connecticut's same-sex marriage law. A clergy, minister, priest, rabbi, religious groups/officers authorized to perform solemnizations would not be required to solmenize any marriage that violates their religious beliefs or faith. The amended legislation would provide them immunity from any administrative, civil and legal liability for refusing or failing to perform a marriage solemnization. These provisions would also apply to Civil Unions.
Removing the parental rights provision from the proposal.
Effective date changed from Nov. 18 to Dec. 2, 2013.

4:03 p.m.

They're starting to let people in.

3:48 p.m.

Rep. Karl Rhoads announces that they will be in recess until 4:15 p.m., then they will release a decision.

3:30 P.m.

The line outside is long!

3:03 p.m.

Rep. Karl Rhoads announces lawmakers need more time to deliberate. They will return around 3:30 p.m.

2:50 p.m.

People are lining up outside the auditorium to get in. Only media and staff are allowed to stay inside.

2:04 p.m.

Rep. Karl Rhoads thanks the House minority staff for volunteering their time during the special session. "We all appreciate your efforts for a marathon session," Rhoads says. "I think it's probably the longest hearing ever in the history of Hawaii." The audience stands up and starts clapping.

2 p.m.

Rep. Karl Rhoads announces they're going into recess until 3 p.m. Decision to follow. "If you'd like to witness the vote, you're welcome to come back," he says.

1:54 p.m.

The last man to testify reaches the podium. Rep. Sylvia Luke says, "Congratulations!" The audience laughs out loud.

1:47 p.m.

The last few people waiting in line to testify. We're almost done!

1:43 p.m.

One woman testifies: "Just because Lady Gaga says you're born this way, doesn't mean it's right."

1:42 p.m.

Rep. Sylvia Luke announces the last person in line will be the last testifier. Afterwards, lawmakers will go into deliberation for decision making.

1:37 p.m.

A pregnant mother of eight says she wrote three or four different speeches for her testimony. She asks lawmakers to "kill the bill." She says the Hawaii State Teachers Association did not ask teachers how they felt about gay marriage, before coming out to support it. "I don't want to be forced to teach someone else's religion and call it education," she says.

1:26 p.m.

Leslie Among is testifier No. 3,248. He tells lawmakers he used to play guitar for Bruno Mars when he was just a young performer in Waikiki. Among asks lawmakers to let the people decide, instead of playing God.

1:01 p.m.

Rep. Bob McDermott asks one female testifier, "Why has the education board chairman not shown up?"

"Because this is not the education bill," replies Tara O'Neill, a professor of science education at University of Hawaii-Manoa.

"I don't know if she can answer that question," Rep. Sylvia Luke interrupts.

The crowd laughs out loud.

We're told Hawaii State Board of Education chairman Don Horner wanted to testify yesterday, but was turned away because he did not sign up on time to testify.

12:49 p.m.

Hawaii Rep. Sylvia Luke announces, "This is your last opportunity to testify." Deliberations will start, hopefully, around 2 p.m.

12:39 P.M.

We're in the homestretch! There's no one else waiting in the line outside the auditorium for numbers between 5,001 and 5,184.

Photo: Diane Lee

12:08 p.m.

It's 84-degrees outside and 14 gay marriage supporters are sign waving along Beretania Street. GLBT Caucus of the Democratic Party of Hawaii chair, Michael Golojuch, Jr., announces to them, "Illinois just took gay marriage! Illinois just took gay marriage!" One supporter holding a rainbow flag shouts, "Wohoo!"

This article appears in the November 2013 issue of HONOLULU Magazine.