New York State Assembly Passes Marriage Bill Again to Remove Obstacles For Expected Senate Vote Today

Back in May, New York's State Assembly voted to pass the state's marriage equality bill sponsored by the openly gay Assemblyman Danny O'Donnell, brother of comedian/actor Rosie O'Donnell.

Yet because the Senate is expected to vote on their version of the bill today (I'll believe it when I see it) in an extraordinary session (not a regular one), the Assembly had to vote on the bill again Tuesday night to clear all hurdles for its passage.

Empire Pride Agenda said in a press release:

Just a few moments ago, the New York State Assembly passed marriage equality legislation for the second time this year in a bipartisan vote of 86 to 51. By taking a vote in what is called an “extraordinary session,” the Assembly has removed any obstacle to the bill being sent to the Governor for his signature if the Senate votes on the bill when it reconvenes tomorrow to conduct business.

The Pride Agenda gives special thanks to the New York State Assembly, under the leadership of Speaker Sheldon Silver, that has now voted and passed the marriage equality bill three times. Our thanks also to the legislation’s prime sponsor Assemblymember Danny O’Donnell for leading the successful effort again on the floor.

It is anticipated that forces opposing marriage equality may be coming to Albany tomorrow to put pressure on the State Senate to take no action on the bill. We continue to expect the Senate to give this issue the respectful debate and vote it deserves.

ACTION: Contact your senator and tell them to vote for marriage equality!

Watch the Senate session live! (Scheduled for 10am EST - they're a little behind.) Now removed.