Updated: House passes same-sex marriage bill, 55-43

The House voted to pass a bill legalizing same-sex marriage 55-43, following more than two hours of debate.

Rep. Jamie Pedersen opened up debate by saying that he and his partner Eric are grateful for the protections that their domestic partnership provides, but it is a “pale and inadequate substitute” for marriage.

“Marriage is the word our society uses to describe a committed, lifelong relationship,” Pedersen said. “Teachers, doctors, neighbors — and as we discovered this weekend — TurboTax understands the word marriage immediately. They do not understand domestic partnership.”

Rep. Jay Rodne said there is a “natural order” to human existence, and children adopted by same-sex couples will lose a connection with one of their biological parents. “For the first time in Washington history, the state will sever a relationship with one of the child’s biological parents,” Rodne said.

Rep. Norma Smith also urged a “no” vote, saying that the bill is a part of a broader issue being played across the country with implications for religious freedom. “Individuals are left out of this bill,” Smith said. “Small business owners who have a heartfelt view – born out of their love of God – have the potential to be silenced.”

Rep. Maureen Walsh was the first Republican to speak in support of the bill. She told a story about how her daughter stood up for a kid who was being bullied in school because it was the right thing to do. As an adult, her daughter came out of the closet. “Nothing is different. She’s still a fabulous human being and met a person she loves, and someday I want to throw a wedding for that kid,” Walsh said. “I hope I can do that. I hope she will not feel like a second-class citizen. Domestic partnership sounds like a Merry Maids franchise.”

Rep. Phyllis Gutierrez Kenney said she has two sons who are gay. “Both have been subjected to harassment and rejection. This hurt cannot be erased, and some will last with them forever,” she said.

Tags: same-sex marriage