Yesterday evening, Delaware’s House of Representatives voted 26-15 to grant legal status to same-sex civil unions. This status gives gay and lesbian partners the same rights, protections and obligations previously granted only to married couples.
The vote followed three hours of debate, and will now go to Governor Jack Markell, who has said he will sign the bill as soon as possible.”This is about kids throughout Delaware who will know that if there is an issue with their parents, there will be stability in their lives,” Markell said. “People and their loved ones will be able to protect each other under the law.”
Following the vote, HRC President Joe Solmonese made the following statement:
“Today, we celebrate a victory for all Delaware families who will have the tools to protect themselves in good times and in bad. We look forward to Governor Markell signing this bill into law and thank Senator Sokola and Representative George for their leadership on this bill, and Equality Delaware for their tireless dedication.”
Delaware is the 8th state in the US to offer civil unions. California, Nevada, New Jersey, Oregon, Washington, Hawaii and Illinois also offer civil union or domestic partnership rights.