Washington state marriage equality bill passes in the House

The Washington House of Representatives has passed the bill (55-43) in favor of marriage equality! Once signed by Gov. Christine Gregoire, Washington will become the seventh state (plus Washington, D.C.) in the U.S. to legally recognize same-sex marriage.

The governor is expected to sign the bill into law next week, though those against marriage equality are expected to try and get a referendum on the ballot to counter the bill. Marriages could then be put on hold until the November vote, or otherwise begin as early as June.