Smooth sailing so far for first half of Marriage Equality Day

December 6, 2012

Summary

Nine hours into the first day of a new law allowing same-sex couples to legally wed, King County issued 345 marriage licenses. That number smashes the old record of 212, with half of a marathon 18-hour day yet to go.

Story

Nine hours into the first day of a new law allowing same-sex couples to legally wed, King County issued 345 marriage licenses. That number smashes the old record of 212, with half of a marathon 18-hour day yet to go.
 
The Recorder’s Office opened at 12:01 a.m. to begin issuing marriage licenses. After the initial rush at midnight, the line moved steadily through the early morning hours. By 4:30 a.m., there was virtually no wait in line. County employees worked through the night to process license applications even more quickly than projected. County officials originally estimated that 50 licenses per hour could be processed. Instead, more than 60 couples per hour (one per minute) were issued marriage licenses.
 
“Everyone from the staff and volunteers to couples, family, and supporters helped make this a festive and safe event,” said Norm Alberg, director of the King County Records and Licensing Services Division. “King County staff are proud to take part in this historic event and to meet the increased demand for marriage licenses after voters in our state approved Referendum 74.”
 
The King County Recorder’s Office will stay open until 6:30 p.m. tonight to issue marriage licenses. The office will also be open from 8:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. on Friday, and 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Saturday. For more information about marriage licensing, visit www.kingcounty.gov/marriage.