We offered earlier that the next step in what could be a November ballot initiative is the governor’s decision on whether to sign the legislation.
On Friday her office sent a press release headlined that she will “sign” three bills dealing with domestic partnerships.
One bill essentially gives registered domestic partners everything but the right to call their partnership “marriage.” The other two deal with retirement issues for partners.
Following is a portion of the governor’s press release.
Gov. Gregoire to sign legislation to expand rights to
domestic partners
Event Date: Monday, May 18
OLYMPIA – Gov. Chris Gregoire on Monday will take action on three bills which expand rights to domestic partners:
Engrossed Substitute House Bill No. 1445, relating to domestic partners under the Washington State Patrol retirement system.
Engrossed House Bill No. 1616, relating to the state pension benefits of certain domestic partners.
Engrossed Second Substitute Senate Bill No. 5688, relating to further expanding the rights and responsibilities of state registered domestic partners.
