By Jill Colvin
DNAinfo Reporter/Producer
MANHATTAN — Legislators appeared on the verge of reaching consensus on an historic gay marriage bill that has divided religious leaders across the state and inspired daily protests across the capital, including an appearance by celebrity chef Mario Batali.
Leaders told reporters in Albany they had made significant progress on a series of amendments that would provide greater protections for religious groups that believe marriage should be between a man and a woman.
While no deal has been reached, Gov. Andrew Cuomo, Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver and Senate Majority Leader Dean Skelos said they were encouraged, the AP reported.
Just one vote shy of reaching a majority, supporters and opponents have been in high gear, rallying, organizing phone banks and urging lawmakers to pass or reject the bill.
Even Mario Batali showed up to lobby for the bill, the Albany Times Union reported.
The State Assembly has already passed legislation that would legalize gay marriages and extend legal protections to all couples, regardless of sex — but this isn't the first time.
The Assembly has passed gay marriage bills before — first in 2007 and then twice in 2009, but they have never gained enough support to make it through the senate.
