Congrats! Same-sex couples set to begin receiving marriage licenses in Washington state

Washington Gov. Chris Gregoire today signed the state’s marriage equality law as the Nov. 6 election results were certified. Gregoire and Secretary of State Sam Reed certified the election late this afternoon, and were joined by couples who plan to wed. Last month, Washington state voters approved Referendum 74, which upheld the state’s marriage equality measure. The law takes effect tomorrow, and same-sex couples can begin obtaining marriage licenses. The state has a three-day waiting period, however, meaning the soonest that couples can begin marrying is Sunday. The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force contributed staff resources and training to the marriage equality efforts in Washington.

National Gay and Lesbian Task Force Executive Director Rea Carey says:

This is a thrilling and historic week for Washingtonians. To celebrate one’s love and commitment is a lifelong dream for many, and we congratulate all the loving couples and families who will finally be able to share in the celebration and responsibilities of marriage. We wish the soon-to-be-newlyweds great happiness in their journeys together as married couples.

Thank you once again to all those who have worked so hard to get us to this monumental moment. We are proud to have partnered with you over the months and years it has taken to get here. We rejoice in this victory and continue to press forward to the day when same-sex couples all across America have the freedom to marry.