Thursday, May 31, 2007

New Hampshire establishes civil unions for same-sex couples

New Hampshire establishes civil unions for same-sex couples


CONCORD, N.H. (AP) - New Hampshire Governor John Lynch signed a law today establishing civil unions for same-sex couples, allowing them to apply for the same rights as married people as early as January.

Oregon did the same thing this legislative session, along with passing a law banning discrimination based on sexual orientation.

However opponents are gathering signatures to try to get those bills overturned by voters.

Lynch, a Democrat, called the measure a matter of conscience.

Massachusetts is the only state that allows gay marriage.

Connecticut, Vermont, New Jersey, Maine, California and Washington already allow either civil unions or domestic partnerships.

Hawaii extends certain spousal rights to same-sex couples and cohabiting heterosexual pairs.

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