Wed. March 30, 2011
Olympia, Wash. -
Under a bill now heading to the governor's desk, the state of Washington will recognize gay and lesbian marriages performed legally elsewhere.
Married same-sex couples would be given the same rights granted to Washington State couples in domestic partnerships. Gays and lesbians have had domestic partnership rights in Washington State since 2007.
The bill passed the state Senate Wednesday on a 28 to 19 vote.
Five states along with the District of Columbia now allow gays and lesbians to marry.
The Seattle Times reported that the only lawmaker to speak against the bill, Republican State Sen. Don Benton, argued that the law was unnecessary.
Four Senate Republicans voted for the measure.
The governor is expected to sign it.
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