WASHINGTON, D.C. – Representative Adam Smith (D-Wash.) today released the following statement after the House of Representatives passed the Respect for Marriage Act, which finally repeals the discriminatory Defense of Marriage Act, protects marriage equality for federal purposes, and provides additional protections for same-sex marriage at the state level.
“When the Supreme Court released their opinion this summer overturning Roe v. Wade, Justice Clarence Thomas made it clear that other constitutional rights – including the right to same-sex marriage – are under threat. As LGBTQ+ individuals and families face discrimination in states across the country, the House today passed a bill which will enshrine marriage equality at the federal level. Same-sex and interracial couples can rest assured that their right to marriage will be protected despite what this extreme Supreme Court could rule in the future. With the passage of this bill, Congress sent a resounding message to the American people that we will continue our work to uphold the promise of equal rights, liberties, and freedoms for all – and that love still wins. I am thrilled to have voted for this important legislation, and I look forward to President Biden signing it into law very soon.”
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