The Associated Press:

New Jersey's Statehouse will likely be crowded Tuesday when activists show up to make their case for and against a bill that would allow gay marriage.

Democratic lawmakers have said allowing gay couples to marry is one of their top priorities.

A similar bill died two years ago. But Senate President Stephen Sweeney, who abstained then, now favors allowing same-sex unions.

Two gay rights groups also have filed a lawsuit to try to force the state to recognize gay marriage.