Connecticut Passes Domestic-Partner Law

[HARTFORD, CT] - Connecticut Gov. John Rowland has signed into law a bill that extends a variety of legal options to same-sex couples. The measure, a compromise from earlier civil unions and same-sex marriage bills, was approved in both House and Senate chambers with bipartisan support in May.

"This represents progress and thanks to the Connecticut Legislature, same-sex couples in the state have a set of rights that will improve their lives," said Human Rights Campaign National Field Director Seth Kilbourn. "We especially want to congratulate Love Makes a Family, the statewide group that was the driving force behind the successful passage of this legislation."

While the bill does not specifically mention same-sex couples, it allows a person to legally name another individual to make medical decisions and choices on life termination, such as organ donation and life support. The law also allows for private visits in nursing homes and requires employers to allow emergency phone calls from a legally designated person. Additionally, the statute mandates that a committee in the state legislature further studies the issue and issues a report later this year.