PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) — Gov. Lincoln Chafee joined top labor officials and several religious leaders Monday in launching what they hope is the final push to allow gay and lesbian couples to marry in Rhode Island.

Chafee, Treasurer Gina Raimondo, Rhode Island AFL-CIO President George Nee and others announced the formation of a new coalition — Rhode Islanders United for Marriage — as lawmakers in the General Assembly prepare to take up the contentious issue.