Connecticut today became the first U.S. state to legalize same-sex civil unions without action by courts. The law will take effect on October 1 and will give same-sex couples the same rights afforded married couples in that state including hospital visitation and inheritance rights.
Governor Jodi Rell: “I have said all along that I believe in no discrimination of any kind. And I think that this bill accomplishes that, while at the same time preserving the traditional language that marriage is between a man and a woman.”
Connecticut Legalizes Civil Unions for Gay Couples [reuters]
Video [fox 61 wtic-tv]