By Bert Gambini
Albany, NY – The future of gay marriage in New York is now in the hands of the Republican-led State Senate.
The Democrat-led Assembly, by a vote of 80-63, easily passed Governor Andrew Cuomo's marriage-equality bill Wednesday night.
The Assembly vote now means that legalizing same-sex marriage in New York is apparently one vote away from becoming reality. And the bill's fate could come down to the vote of local lawmaker.
Republican Senator Mark Grisanti of Buffalo had previously said he would vote against the bill. But Wednesday, Grisanti said that has had not made up his mind on the issue.
Kitty Lambert of the group Outspoken for Equality delivered hundreds of letters from supporters to Grisanti's downtown office. She said this is an important vote for the state.
"We would be so honored, so honored if it was Senator Gristanti that stood up for equality and equal representation," said Lambert.
WBFO News reached out to Grisanti for comment, but our calls were not returned.
On Monday, Rochester Republican Jim Alessi became for Senate's first GOP member to say he would support the marriage equality.
If the bill passes, New York would become the 6th state in the nation to legalize same-sex unions.
Governor Cuomo issued the following statement Wednesday night praising the Assembly's action:
"The vote by the State Assembly has moved New York one step closer to making marriage equality a reality. I applaud these legislators' prompt and courageous support on this measure, which will finally allow same-sex couples the freedom to marry and provide them with hundreds of rights that others take for granted. I commend Speaker Sheldon Silver for his leadership and Assemblyman Daniel O'Donnell for his tireless work fighting for equality. We are on the verge of a pinnacle moment for this state."
An openly gay leader in Jamestown, N.Y. applauds the Assembly's action.
Greg Rabb is president of the Jamestown City Council.
"Congratulations go to the New York State Assembly for approving marriage equality for the fourth time thanks to the leadership of Governor Cuomo. I look forward to the New York State Senate voting yes on marriage equality and sending the bill to Governor Cuomo for his signature," said Rabb.