Statement From Senate Majority Leader Malcolm A. Smith On Marriage Equality

"I have been and continue to be a strong supporter of marriage equality and remain steadfast in my commitment to passing the marriage equality legislation submitted today by Governor Paterson. No person should ever be denied their civil rights or the basic freedoms others can enjoy.

I am fully committed to continuing the process of securing the 32 votes necessary for passage and ensuring that all New Yorkers can realize the right of marriage equality which is fundamentally theirs."