Hawaii Legislature Won't Call Special Session to Consider Gay Marriage

Hawaii House and Senate lawmakers say they don't have enough support to call a special session to consider whether to legalize gay marriage.

The Honolulu Star-Advertiser reported Wednesday that House Majority Leader Scott Saiki says the Legislature doesn't have the two-thirds majority needed to call a special session.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie can call for a special session if he chooses.

Supporters of gay marriage have renewed a push on the issue in Hawaii since the U.S. Supreme Court ruled last month that legally married gay couples can get federal benefits.

Senate Majority Leader Brickwood Galuteria says it's not likely lawmakers will be called into session unless there is a good chance a bill would be passed.

Hawaii allows civil unions without the marriage label.

Regular session resumes next year.