Marriage bill clears New Jersey Legislature in ‘victory for N.J. families’

Good news from New Jersey! The state Legislature has approved the marriage equality bill. The Assembly today passed the bill. The measure cleared the Senate on Monday in a 24-16 vote. Gov. Chris Christie has said he will veto it.

Over the years, the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force has worked with equality advocates in New Jersey to secure protections for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people and their families. This includes being a key partner in the 2006 passage of a transgender nondiscrimination bill and a civil unions bill; the 2008 passage of a measure that strengthened the state’s anti-bullying and hate crimes laws; and efforts to advance marriage equality since 2005. Task Force staff was on hand for today’s Assembly vote in Trenton.

National Gay and Lesbian Task Force Executive Director Rea Carey said today:

This victory is a victory for New Jersey families. It affirms what millions of people across the country already know — loving, committed same-sex couples and their families should be able to join in the celebration and responsibilities of marriage. This marks an important step in the Garden State’s march toward marriage equality. It has been a long journey of changing hearts and minds, of breaking down walls, and of shining a spotlight on our common humanity. Gov. Chris Christie should take a stand for families by signing this bill. Thank you to the Legislature for its support, and congratulations to Garden State Equality and all those working so hard for marriage equality in New Jersey.

Garden State Equality is hosting a free celebration at the Trenton Marriott ballroom, 1 West Lafayette Street. If you’re around, stop on in! More details here.