When the legislation is signed , Maryland will be the eighth state to allow same - sex marriage . Washington Gov . Chris Gregoire signed a law legalizing the unions earlier this month . New Jersey lawmakers approved same - sex marriage this month , but Sen . He has said voters should decide the issue in a statewide referendum . Chris Christie signed the legislation . Neither side in the same - sex marriage debate is declaring victory .
When the legislation is signed , Maryland will be the eighth state to allow same - sex marriage . Washington Gov . Chris Gregoire signed a law legalizing the unions earlier this month . New Jersey lawmakers approved same - sex marriage this month , but Sen . Chris Christie signed the legislation . Neither side in the same - sex marriage debate is declaring victory .