COLAGE proudly applauds the adoption of a new bill granting access to domestic partnerships to same-sex couples in the state of Washington. Under Senate Bill 5336, same-sex couples can register their partnerships and become eligible for about 15 legal rights long denied them — most dealing with access to health-care information, inheritances and other end-of-life issues. We know that many COLAGErs and their families will access the domestic-partnership registry that will be created July 21 at the Secretary of State’s Office when the legislation takes effect. The bill was signed into law by Governor Gregoire during a receiption last weekend.

The rights also become available to unmarried heterosexual couples if one partner is 62 or older.The legislation makes Washington one of a half-dozen states to recognize same-sex partnerships in some fashion; only Massachusetts has recognized full marriages.

This bill validates the right of youth with LGBT parents, like other children, to belong to families that are respected and awarded rights. "Young people are most able to thrive when they are part of family structures that support them and in turn are supported by the structures and institutions of society. Washington State has taken a step towards equally protecting and celebrating our families with the pass of this bill," shared Meredith Fenton, COLAGE Program Director.

Click here to learn more about this bill and thank legislators who supported it!