PROVIDENCE, R.I. — Legislation that would make Rhode Island the 10th state to allow gays and lesbians to marry faces an uncertain future despite being overwhelmingly approved by the state House.

It could be weeks or even months before the Senate takes up the bill that would make Rhode Island the last state in New England to recognize same-sex marriage, but supporters still celebrated the House vote Thursday night.

Ken Fish, a gay man from Warwick, showed up at the Statehouse hours before the vote to ensure he got a seat in the crowded viewing gallery.