Out Washington state lawmakers to push marriage bill

http://www.gaypolitics.com/2011/11/14/out-washington-state-lawmakers-to-push-marriage-bill/

 

Openly gay and lesbian legislators in Washington state have announced they will introduce a bill next year seeking full marriage rights for same-sex couples.

“Our objective is to strengthen the social and legal protections for average, mainstream Washington families — the men, women and their children who make their homes in our communities and neighborhoods,” said Rep. Jim Moeller, speaking to The Columbian.

“We’re going to push it.  I believe 2012 is the best chance we’ve ever had to make marriage equality a reality,” said Sen. Ed Murray, an openly gay Democrat who has served for years in the legislature.

Washington United for Marriage, a coalition of dozens of LGBT, labor and religious groups, is set to announce their plans at a press conference today, according to the Seattle Times.

Recent polling shows most Washingtonians would vote to uphold the law if opponents try to reverse it via a statewide ballot initiative.