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Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

Eye On Olympia

House passes “everything but marriage” domestic partnership bill…

After long debate, the state House of Representatives this afternoon approved an "everything but marriage" bill granting same-sex domestic partners most of the rights and responsibilities of spouses.

The bill passed, 62-35. It now goes to Gov. Chris Gregoire, who is expected to sign it into law.

The vote was largely along party lines. Democrats argued that the bill is a simple matter of fairness for same-sex couples, in things like getting benefits when a partner is killed on the job.

"The principal we're talking about is equal rights under the law. It's that simple," said Rep. Roger Goodman, D-Kirkland.

Republicans and one conservative Democrat argued against the change, with many saying the bill is a legal path to full same-sex marriage in Washington.

"Everybody knows that this is what this debate is about," said Rep. Dan Roach, R-Sumner. He and other opponents of the bill urged the House to instead send the matter to voters.

"Those that are proponents of this bill know that a referendum will not pass," he said. "The people are not ready for that."

 



Short takes and breaking news from the Washington Legislature and the state capital.