"For the second time, California's elected representatives have passed legislation ensuring equality for all of the state's families," said Solmonese. "We urge Governor Schwarzenegger to think about how the history books will remember this decision. He has an opportunity before him to be remembered as a courageous governor who stood up for equal treatment under the law for all families. We applaud Equality California and the Legislature for their leadership in passing this historic measure."

By a vote of 22 to 15, the California state Senate today approved A.B. 43, authored by Assembly member Mark Leno and sponsored by Equality California. The bill had passed the California Assembly by a vote of 42 to 34 on June 4 of this year and now goes to the governor's desk for consideration. The governor must take action on all bills by Oct. 14.

The California Assembly first passed marriage equality legislation by a 41 to 35 vote on Sept. 6, 2005. The California Senate passed the measure on Sept. 1, 2005, by a 21 to 15 vote. The legislation was vetoed by Schwarzenegger.

The Human Rights Campaign is America's largest civil rights organization working to achieve gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender equality. By inspiring and engaging all Americans, HRC strives to end discrimination against GLBT citizens and realize a nation that achieves fundamental fairness and equality for all.