Members of the Assembly in a bipartisan vote of 89-52, approved a bill that would legalize same-sex marriage in New York State. The bill had been introduced by Governor David Paterson earlier this year.

During the spirited debate Member of the Assembly, Janet Duprey, R, Plattsburgh, explained why she was changing her vote from two years ago. "The next generation of adults will wonder what the big deal was about"

Member of the Assembly Sam Hoyt of Buffalo is a cosponsor of the bill. In explaining his vote, Hoyt offered recognition and appreciation to a long list of gay and lesbian individuals from Buffalo. Hoyt remembered those activist living and dead who have long fought the fight for gay and lesbian rights in Buffalo and Western New York.

Buffalo Assembly member Mark Schroeder(D. Buffalo) spoke in favor of the legislation during debate.

Republican member of the Assembly Jack Quinn R, Hamburg, led the Republican opposition to the civil rights measure.

In order to become law the bill will need passage in the State Senate and signed by the Governor. Senate Majority Leader Malcolm Smith (D. ) has stated that the Senate will consider the bill this session if it become apparent that there are enough Senators who will support the legislation with their vote.

In 2007 the Assembly approved this legislation by a vote of 85-61, the legislation was not enacted as the New York State Senate did not act on the bill during that legislative session. —Staff