Committed, loving couples across the state one step closer to critical protections

ANNAPOLIS, FEBRUARY 24, 2011 - Today the Maryland Senate voted 25-21 to pass SB 116, the Civil Marriage Protection Act, legislation that would end the exclusion of gay and lesbian couples from marriage in Maryland. Equality Maryland, along with members of the Senate and everyday Marylanders who believe in fairness, celebrate this victory and acknowledge the work ahead to make marriage equality a reality.

Senator Rob Garagiola (D-15), Lead Sponsor

"This is a historic and proud moment in Maryland's history.  The advocates for this legislation have worked tirelessly to this point and will continue to push through the final stages of this movement. I am honored to be a part of this effort and am confident that the Free State will realize full marriage equality in 2011."

Senator Rich Madaleno, (D-18), Lead Sponsor

"The Maryland Senate's vote today passing the Civil Marriage Protection Act is a reflection of the values we share as Marylanders and Americans. It demonstrates our commitment to civil rights and equality for all. The House of Delegates should act swiftly to provide loving families across our state with dignity and the respect we deserve."

Senator Jamie Raskin (D-20), Lead Sponsor

"What a great day for freedom in the Free State. By establishing the right of all Marylanders to marry and the right of all Maryland churches to make their own decision about marriage, we have vindicated the principles of equality and toleration that go back to our Toleration Act of 1649. Our state led the way in showing how people of different values and creeds can live together peacefully. We have lived up to that tradition this week."

Morgan Meneses-Sheets, Executive Director of Equality Maryland

"Today we thank Senators Garagiola, Madaleno, and Raskin for their tremendous leadership. We are proud of all the 25 senators who stood up for the fairness today and voted to support SB 116. We also thank the thousands of Marylanders who have not only worked tirelessly, but also opened their hearts to share their stories and their experiences with their senators to explain why marriage matters.

The majority of folks in the Free State support the freedom to marry. Today our State Senate proved they also stand for fairness for all Maryland's families. Marriage and family are about love and commitment, and we are committed to helping pass marriage equality. Today we celebrate - tomorrow we focus our attention on the House hearing on HB 175."