This note from the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force:

NEW YORK, June 15 — The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force applauds the New York Assembly's passage today of legislation granting same-sex couples the freedom to marry in the Empire State. Marriage equality advocates now await a Senate vote, which is expected to be extremely close. The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force has been working with the New Yorkers United for Marriage coalition to secure marriage equality, including assisting with phone banks over the past several weeks.

Statement by Rea Carey, Executive Director
National Gay and Lesbian Task Force

"This is a tremendously exciting moment as New York finds itself on the brink of marriage equality. We eagerly look forward to the Empire State becoming the sixth and largest state to grant this fundamental freedom to loving, committed same-sex couples. It will mean same-sex couples who live in New York will no longer have to cross state lines to marry. That day will be a great and historic one for New York — already a leader in so many ways. We thank the state Assembly for passing this vitally important legislation and applaud Gov. Andrew Cuomo for making this a key priority. We are proud to be a supporter of New Yorkers United for Marriage, which has been doggedly organizing on this issue that is so critical to the lives of families throughout New York and the country. We urge the Senate to swiftly take us over the finish line. Let's get this done."