Today, the New York Senate passed a bill granting full marriage equality to all New Yorkers.  The General Assembly has already passed marriage equality legislation this term, and Governor Andrew Cuomo, a strong proponent of the bill, has said he will sign it.

Michael Keegan, President of People For the American Way, issued the following statement:

“After months of determination and hard work, the state of New York has taken a huge step toward making a fundamental American ideal – equality under the law – a reality for all its citizens. Americans want to do the right thing on behalf of same-sex couples and their families. And all across the country we’ve seen that preventing same-sex couples from having the full protections of marriage causes devastating harm to many Americans. Today’s vote strengthens families, strengthens marriage and strengthens New York.

“This is an important step forward, but there is still a long road ahead to ensuring that all Americans, gay or straight, are treated equally under the law. I hope the momentum built by today’s vote will continue to grow until all states and the federal government recognize this fundamental right. We must continue to fight for fairness until equality is achieved for all people.”

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