Sen. Swecker statement on Senate Bill 5688

March 10, 2009

OLYMPIA…Sen. Dan Swecker, R-Rochester, issued this statement on the passage tonight of Engrossed Second Substitute Senate Bill 5688:  

“I am disappointed that tonight the Senate passed legislation that would make domestic partnerships equal to marriage – as is referenced 180 times in the bill. But I am even more disappointed that voters in the state of Washington will not get to have their say on this issue. 

“The amendment I proposed would have sent the issue before the voters. In a matter of this importance, voters should have the ultimate say. This is more than just a legal change, it is a moral change.  

“I will continue to stand up for the sanctity of marriage between one man and one woman.  

“This year the sponsors of this bill said our state is not ready for gay marriage and I agree with them. Washington is not ready for gay marriage, but this bill would amount to legalizing gay marriage – it just takes us there through the back door rather than through the front door.”  

—30— 

For more information contact
Ashley Forsyth
 (360) 786-7037