New York Gay Marriage

The New York State Assembly passed a bill that would legalize gay marriage in the state on the evening of May 12, 2009. The measure needs to be passed in the upper house before it becomes law. New York Governor David Paterson has promised to sign the bill should it reach his desk. Mayor Michael Bloomberg released a statement saying that he applauds "member of both parties for moving this historic legislation forward."CNN: New York Moves Closer to Same-Sex Marriage (May 13, 2009)

The same draft law was put to the New York legislature in 2007. It passed the lower house, but was rejected by the Republican-led Senate. In May 2009, Governor Paterson introduced the bill again. This time, the Senate has a slim Democratic majority, which may or may not be enough to pass the law.MSNBC: Gay marriage passes first vote in New York state (May 12, 2009)

Speaker of the House Sheldon Silver said that New Yorkers should have the right to marry who they choose. Senate Majority leader Malcolm Smith said he won't bring the measure to the floor unless there are enough votes to pass the bill.MSNBC: Gay marriage passes first vote in New York state (May 12, 2009)

• MSNBC: Gay marriage passes first vote in New York state (May 12, 2009)