The Democrat-controlled Colorado legislature passed a bill to legalize gay civil unions and sent it to Gov. John Hickenlooper (D), who is expected to sign it. The bill passed 39-26 with all Democrats and two Republicans voting in favor. Voters in the state approved a gay marriage ban seven years ago, making civil unions the only option available at present. "I ask for a 'yes' vote for love, a 'yes' vote for family, and a 'yes' vote for equal protection," said House Speaker Mark Ferrandino (D), the first openly gay male legislator in the state's history.