BRIDGEWATER — Gov. Chris Christie called today for the Legislature to put on the fall ballot a voter referendum on whether to legalize gay marriage, which Democratic lawmakers have made a top priority.

If successful, the referendum would amend the state Constitution and trump the current civil unions law. He urged all Republicans in the Legislature to put the matter to voters, but promised to veto the measure if it came to him in the form of a bill.

"I think this is not an issue that should rest solely in my hands, or the hands of the Senate President or the Speaker or the other 118 members of the Legislature," he said. "Let's let the people of New Jersey decide what is right for the state."

Christie made the announcement after a town hall in Bridgewater as the Senate Judiciary Committee held hearings on the issue in Trenton.

"Let's make sure that political maneuvering is not what judges this and let's make sure this is not someone just trying to have fun and create a campaign issue," he said. "The institution of marriage if too serious to be treated like a political football."

In reaction to Christie's bombshell, State Sen. Raymond Lesniak (D-Union), a sponsor of the bill, said same-sex marriage is "a right that's guaranteed by the Constitution. It's up to us to implement it as legislators."

Earlier this month, Democrats introduced the bill, S1, first in the new session to symbolize its importance.

"I would hope the Legislature would be willing to trust the people the way I'm willing to trust the people," Christie said, reiterating his personal opposition to gay marriage. "I think it's the institution of marriage and it's bigger than just a word, it's hundreds of years of tradition both legally and societally and religiously and that's what I stand up in protecting."

Still, Christie said he would be willing to consider strengthening the legal protections under the state's civil unions law, and when he heard hospitals were denying visitation to same-sex partners, he called on Health Commissioner Mary O'Dowd to look into the matter.

By Jenna Portnoy and MaryAnn Spoto/Star-Ledger Staff

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