New Hampshire legislature to tackle same-sex marriage - again

New Hampshire may become the sixth state to legalize same-sex marriages.

(CNN) – New Hampshire may move closer Wednesday to joining five other states in the nation where same-sex marriages are legal.

The state's legislature, which has already passed a measure allowing gay and lesbian couples to tie the knot, is expected to revisit the issue to provide greater protections for churches and other religious institutions.

Gov. John Lynch, a three-term Democrat, said last week he would sign a same-sex marriage bill only if it provides "the strongest and clearest protections for religious institutions and associations, and for the individuals working with such institutions."

Lynch said any such measure needs to "make clear that (clergy and other religious officials) cannot be forced to act in ways that violate their deeply held religious principles."

The legislature is expected to vote on language suggested by Lynch stating that religious organizations can decline to take part in any marriage ceremony without incurring fines or risking lawsuits.