April, 16 2009, 11:04am EDT
For Immediate Release
Contact:
Inga Sarda-Sorensen, Director of Communications
(Office) 646.358.1463 (Cell) 202.641.5592
isorensen@theTaskForce.org
Task Force Applauds Washington Legislature's Passage of Bill Expanding State Domestic Partnership Rights
WASHINGTON
The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force applauds the Washington Legislature's passage of a bill expanding the rights and responsibilities associated with the state's domestic partnership registry. Gov. Christine Gregoire is expected to sign it. The House passed the legislation last night by a 62-35 vote, following the Senate's passage on March 11 by a 30-18 vote.
Statement by Rea Carey, Executive Director
National Gay and Lesbian Task Force
"This measure will bring same-sex couples in Washington state one step closer to realizing equal treatment under the law. Particularly in times of economic crisis, it is vital that same-sex couples and their families have access to health care and other critical protections provided through this legislation.
"While clearly not a substitute for legal marriage, it is a step in the right direction. We congratulate Equal Rights Washington for its hard work to advance this important legislation, and we look forward to the day when full legal marriage is a reality for same-sex couples in Washington state."
The National LGBTQ Task Force advances full freedom, justice and equality for LGBTQ people. We are building a future where everyone can be free to be their entire selves in every aspect of their lives. Today, despite all the progress we've made to end discrimination, millions of LGBTQ people face barriers in every aspect of their lives: in housing, employment, healthcare, retirement, and basic human rights. These barriers must go. That's why the Task Force is training and mobilizing millions of activists across our nation to deliver a world where you can be you. Join us!
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