Those with things to say about same-sex marriage or about the Vermont state budget have a chance to speak up tonight.

The Vermont Commission on Family Recognition and Protection has scheduled a hearing for 5 to 8:30 p.m. at the Williston Central School Auditorium. The panel is to advise the Legislature on whether Vermont should drop its civil unions in favor of marriage for same-sex couples.

Meanwhile, the House and Senate appropriations committees will take testimony from Vermont Interactive Television studios around the state, where members of the public will be invited to gather and speak out about budget issues.

The budget hearing is set for 4:30 to 7 p.m.