Phillips praises State Senate expansion of domestic partnership rights, urges passage in the House

March 11, 2009

Summary

Senate Bill 5688 grants domestic partners the same rights as married couples under state law

Story

On an important day for gay couples across Washington state, King County Councilmember Larry Phillips praised the State Senate for passing Senate Bill 5688, which extends to domestic partners the same rights married couples have under state law. The bill includes rights in areas such as worker’s compensation, sick leave, unemployment and disability benefits, and divorce.

“The tide is changing, and I am proud to see that Washington is moving toward equal treatment for gay and lesbian couples,” said Phillips, who sponsored County legislation requiring county contractors to provide equal benefits to domestic partners. “Until now, thousands of Washington families have been left out in the cold when it comes to having the same protections that keep married couples safe during tough times. With passage of this bill, those inequities will end. The next fight will be conferring gay couples with the respect and recognition that comes with the title of ‘marriage.’”

Senate Bill 5688 passed 30-18 last night in the Senate. Its companion, House Bill 1727, has yet to be voted upon. Phillips wrote today to members of the House, encouraging them to stay the course and pass House Bill 1727.

“Facing down resistance to change takes courage—I praise the Senators who voted in favor of fairness and equality, and I urge members of the House to follow suit,” said Phillips.