Washington state gays hold narrow approval of partnership law R-71
WASHINGTON STATE:
APPROVE REFERENDUM 71?
Approved = 51.13%
Rejected = 48.87%
Current results of public vote to approve a same-sex partnership bill known as Referendum 71, and called by many, ”the Everything But Marriage Bill.” R-71 was put up to a public vote by opponents to gathered enough petition signatures to challenge the bill that had already been approved by the state legislature and the Governor. Though many rights may be granted to same-sex couple through this bill, it does not equal marriage, and provides no benefits or protection at the Federal level, nor does it provide any recognition of a legal relationship when a gay or lesbian couple leaves the state of Washington. If the lead can hold throughout the night, it is a small plus for gay relationships but will likely not make up for the huge political and social loss for gays in Maine who have lost tonight the ability to get legally married. (Seattle Times)
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