The state House passed a bill this afternoon to legalize civil unions between same-sex partners. The vote was 33 to 17 with one member excused.

The bill, which now goes to the state Senate, would give partners who enter into civil unions the same benefits and responsibilities under state law as married couples. The bill also authorizes the state to recognize civil unions, domestic partnerships and same-sex marriages from other states.

Three other states – Vermont, New Jersey and New Hampshire – allow civil unions. Two states – Massachusetts and Connecticut – allow same-sex marriage.

"It's really inspiring for me today," said state House Majority Leader Blake Oshiro, D-33rd (Aiea, Halawa, Aiea Heights), the bill's sponsor, who thanked those who supported the bill.

State Rep. Gene Ward, R-17th (Queen's Gate, Kalama Valley, Hawaii Kai), said activists who support the bill would not be satisfied with civil unions and would push for same-sex marriage.

"This is not to condemn individuals, it's to protect an institution," he said.

In 1998, nearly 70 percent of Hawaii voters passed a constitutional amendment authorizing the Legislature to define marriage as between one man and one woman.