New York senators are expected to vote on gay marriage tomorrow (Wednesday) or Thursday.

The bill was to go to the vote last Friday but stalled after Republicans raised concerns about protections for religious groups.

Closed-door talks on the issue have reportedly been successful, with the bill expected to come to a vote in the next two days before the legislative session ends.

It is believed that the bill needs just one vote to pass, as 31 of the 62 senators have said publicly they will back it.

Speaking to Associated Press on condition of anonymity, one Republican senator said that only a couple of senators had not yet told colleagues of their voting intentions.

The bill does not offer protection to individuals who refuse to officiate or provide services to gay weddings. However, religious groups are not obliged to perform the ceremonies.

This week’s vote could make New York the sixth US state to allow gay marriage, as Governor Andrew Cuomo has given it his full backing. A 2009 bill suffered a surprise defeat after support levels were over-estimated.

Massachusetts, Connecticut, Iowa, New Hampshire, Vermont and Washington DC currently have marriage equality.