Rhode Island legalizes same-sex marriage

In another big step towards equality for all, Rhode Island yesterday became the 10th state in the country to legalize same-sex marriage.

Governor Lincoln Chafee signed the bill into law on the Statehouse steps shortly after the it was passed by the state House of Representatives. He didn't want to waste any time.

The new law will take effect on August 1 of this year. On that date, the first same-sex marriages can begin.

With 10 states - plus the District of Columbia - now recognizing same-sex marriage, we're more than 20 percent of the way towards total marriage equality in the U.S.

But with 40 states left to go, there is no time to waste!