Official Status For Gay Couples (Press, 18 March 1989)
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Summary: Official Status For Gay Couples (Press, 18 March 1989)
City leaders in San Francisco are poised to introduce a groundbreaking ordinance aimed at redefining the concept of family. This proposed regulation will extend the definition to encompass homosexual couples and provide some of the benefits currently reserved for married couples to unmarried partners, thereby enhancing support for extended families as well. A key feature of this "domestic partnership" proposal is the establishment of a formal registration process for gay couples at city hall, where they can receive certificates akin to marriage licences. Heterosexual couples seeking public acknowledgment of their relationship would also be eligible for these certificates. Under the new ordinance, both homosexual and unmarried heterosexual partners would gain legal recognition in matters related to real estate and lease contracts, affording them rights that were previously exclusive to married couples. Moreover, employee benefits for city and county workers will see significant improvements; sick leave provisions for individuals whose partners or parents are gravely ill would be broadened, and child care policies would be standardised across different city departments. The proposal will also ensure that partners have visitation rights at hospitals and jails, placing them on equal footing with traditional family members. Additionally, the needs of parents living with adult children will be taken into account regarding insurance and sick leave benefits. While the ordinance will not directly impose requirements on private businesses, the architects of the legislation hope that domestic partner certificates will inspire employers to extend similar benefits to gay couples. Tom Dimaria, a representative from the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force in Washington, highlighted the significance of the ordinance, remarking that such a comprehensive initiative is unprecedented in the United States and reflects a milestone achievement in the ongoing struggle for LGBTQ+ rights on a national level. The proposal demonstrates a progressive step towards inclusivity and recognition for diverse family structures in the community.
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