SALEM, Ore. (AP)

House Republicans are complaining about a lesbian lobbyist because she attended a long debate about gay rights last week with her partner — state Representative Tina Kotek — at her desk on the House floor.

Kotek and labor lobbyist Aimee Wilson sat together as the House passed bills to give same-sex couples the benefits of marriage and to outlaw discrimination based on sexual orientation. Kotek kissed Wilson on the cheek after the bills passed.

Today, the House Republican leader complained that Wilson’s presence violated House rules that prohibit lobbyists from being on the House floor while the chamber is in session.

House Minority leader Wayne Scott has asked House Speaker Jeff Merkley and the House chief clerk to investigate the matter. Kotek has declined comment.

Copyright 2007 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.