WASHINGTON: Major Firms Including Microsoft Endorse Same-Sex Marriage

Six major Washington state corporations including Microsoft have issued a joint letter endorsing the marriage equality bill proposed by Gov. Christine Gregoire. The Seattle Times reports:

As letters of support go, it's very short: "We write you today to show the support of our respective companies for SB 6239 and HB 2516 recognizing marriage equality for same-sex couples." In addition to Microsoft, the letter was signed by officials from Vulcan, NIKE, RealNetworks, Group Health Cooperative, and Concur. Microsoft created a flap in 2005 when said it was neutral on the initial gay-rights legislation. It failed in the Senate by one vote that year. After heavy criticism, the company later changed its position and endorsed the legislation, as well as subsequent bills, including domestic partnerships for same-sex couples. The company last week said it was reviewing the legislation and had not decided whether to take a position.

Advocates hope this move will sway the state senators needed to guarantee the bill's passage. At last count, the bill was two votes short with about nine senators listed as "undecided." (Tipped by JMG reader Ryan)

UPDATE: Make that ONE more vote needed!