Sen. Murray issued the following statement regarding today's news that a majority of senators support his bill, SB 6239, allowing same-sex couples to marry in Washington state:

"This is an incredible moment in a struggle that has gone on every one of the 17 years I have been in the Legislature, a struggle that includes decades of work by men and women across our state who have called for equality for gay and lesbian families.

'We have come this far because of families. Because gay and lesbian veterans, law enforcement officers, small business owners and couples from all walks of life have had the courage to share their stories of love and commitment. We’ve reached this point because of children who spoke out for their parents’ right to marry, and because of parents who spoke out on behalf of their sons’ and daughters’ right to equality under the law.

"I also want to acknowledge the personal, thoughtful and brave decisions by lawmakers of both parties who have declared their support of marriage equality. As a community, Washington stands ready to take an important step toward justice.”