This just in from HRC's Regional Field Organizer Anthony Hayes:
The debate on the floor went on for almost 4 hours and I was honored to see the way New York State legislators debated this issue. It is such an emotionally charged issue for both sides and for the most part everyone was incredibly respectful. Once we had final remarks from Assemblyman O'Donnell, the voting started and the entire gallery jumped to their feet to watch the board. Everyone was watching how each member of the Assembly was voting and then the board went black. It was a moment of uncertainty. Would they have to vote again? The Speaker announced that no one should leave the chamber and asked people to call back their colleagues if they had already left. 
In very short order, the board was fixed and people voted again with a much different result. The room erupted into applause when the final vote came in of 89-52. It was now in the hands of the New York State Senate. Even though we know there is another hurdle to get over, the conversation turned to an engagement party. Yes, right after the Assembly passed A: 7732 Assemblymen O'Donnell and his partner John Banta hosted an engagement party. It was a great way to end the day in Albany. Today the Assembly made history again...because this body has passed a marriage bill before, and now it is in the Senate's hands. All New Yorkers must take action and let your State Senator know that you want him/her to pass the marriage equality bill.
You can contact your senator by calling 518-455-2800 or go to the state senate website to find your state senator by entering your address. Read more recent stories from New York. And check out Anthony Hayes' posts about his efforts in the Empire State.
