Washington State Voters Approve Statewide Domestic Partnership Law
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Posted: 11/06/2009 - 00:04
• Statement from Executive Director Jennifer Chrisler; Family Equality Council
Boston, MA (November 5, 2009)—Today the voters in the state of Washington approved Referendum 71. By voting “approve,” voters retained the domestic partnership laws that were passed on May 18, 2009 during the legislative session. This domestic partnership law provides legal protections for same-sex couples and seniors who are in committed relationships in the State of Washington.
These laws are vitally important to lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) families. They enable domestic partners to take unpaid leave to care for a critically ill loved one without being fired, to cover a partner in family health insurance, and to make sure hard-earned pension and death benefits protect children when a parent dies.
Statement of Jennifer Chrisler, Executive Director, Family Equality Council:
“Today was a victory for family equality in Washington. This decision sends a clear message to the entire country that there is a broad support for family values, which includes all families. This vote is significant to the welfare of LGBT families in the state of Washington, where thousands of parents are raising thousands of children. These children deserve the protection and recognition afforded to them through Referendum 71. Family Equality Council is energized by this ruling, which appropriately recognizes LGBT families who have long struggled to support, protect and provide for one another despite lack of legal family recognition.”
The majority vote of approval was the final obstacle to having this law enacted. The law had previously been adopted by the state Legislature and signed by Gov. Chris Gregoire.
LGBT family support was a key instrument in the successful passage of Referendum 71. These families told their stories about why the domestic partnership law was important to them, changing hearts, minds and votes. Family Equality Council is the leading LGBT family advocacy organization and is a proud partner of Washington Families Standing Together, and the Courage Campaign state equality movements.
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