Today Gov. Chris Gregoire signed SB6239, making Washington the seventh state in the nation to legalize same-sex marriage, in addition to Washington, D.C. The bill was sponsored by Sen. Ed Murray, who has championed the issue for 17 years.
OLYMPIA — In a crowded reception room surrounded by applauding gay couples and lawmakers, and with media from around the country looking on, Gov. Chris Gregoire on Monday signed landmark legislation legalizing same-sex marriage in Washington state.
The historic event brings Washington in line with six other states and the District of Columbia, which allow gays to marry.
With the signing, Washington also becomes the first state in the country to strike down state law that specifically limits marriage to one man and one woman.
News reports also indicate the measure could be subjected to a referendum vote in November.