Gay partnership measure approved by voters in Washington state

A measure expanding benefits for same-sex couples – known as the “everything but marriage” law – has passed in Washington state, the first time such an equality measure has been approved at the state level by voters. Referendum 71 currently has about 52% of the votes, and a margin of 60,000, with 72% of ballots counted.

Same-sex couples can now use sick leave to care for a partner, and gain rights with adoption, child support and custody. “This is a day for which we can all look back with pride,” one supporter tells the AP. Opponents say there’s still much counting to do, and won’t yet concede.

10/19/2009
Note to the Associated Press: We are all ‘pro-marriage’

The AP reports: Supreme Court Justice Anthony Kennedy has temporarily blocked Washington state officials from releasing the names of people who signed a ballot measure on gay rights.

Kennedy’s ruling Monday temporarily blocks a federal appeals court ruling last week that ordered the release of the names. Kennedy said his order would remain in effect while he considers a request by a pro-marriage group that asked him to reverse the appeals court ruling.

Confused? Us too. Since I’d like to marry my partner of 19 years – I consider myself pro-marriage.

The case involves Referendum 71, a ballot initiative that asks Washington voters to approve or reject the state’s so-called “everything but marriage” law, which grants registered domestic partners the same legal rights as married heterosexuals.