On Wednesday evening, the Washington State Senate voted in favor of legalizing same-sex marriage legislation in Washington State. The measure passed by a bipartisan vote of 28-21, with 23 Democrats and four Republicans joining together to advance the bill.

"This is an historic vote for the Legislature and for the people of Washington state," said King County Executive Dow Constantine. "More than a decade ago, I stood to fight against the so-called “Defense of Marriage Act.” Today the Senate has righted a wrong and has placed itself on the right side of history."

"All adult residents should and soon will be able to marry under state law—making Washington the seventh U.S. state to recognize this basic civil right," Constantine continued. "I salute the many supporters of this legislation and the Senators who took a tough vote to do the right thing."

Civil rights activists cheered as the measure passed in Olympia.

“We thank Majority Leader Brown, Sen. Murray and the bipartisan coalition of senators who stood with us today in the name of equality,” said Lacey All, Chair of Washington United for Marriage. “The overwhelming support we’re seeing from businesses, labor, faith communities and people all across the state is a testament to the momentum of this movement and sensibilities of Washingtonians."

Larry Lowary and Gerry Betz, longtime partners and residents of Washington said they were grateful that this day has finally arrived, saying, “We’ve been together for 23 years and entered into our domestic partnership five years ago. Now we’re looking to the day when we’ll be able to look into each other’s eyes, exchange our vows and finally say ‘I Do’ just like anybody else.”

The bill now awaits final house approval, which could come as early as next week. Once the house has passed the legislation, Gov. Chris Gregoire would have five business days to sign it into law.