Civil Unions, Rhode Island Style

Interesting today, from Rhode Island. A bill allowing civil unions passed the Rhode Island State Senate, with opposition from some gay rights advocates. The bill has already made its way through the assembly, and Governor Lincoln Chafee, an independent, will consider signing it -- despite his reservations about the religious exemptions.

Gay rights advocates say the bill is unacceptable because it allows religious organizations not to recognize the unions. For example, they say, a Catholic hospital could choose not to allow a lesbian to make medical decisions on behalf of her partner, and a Catholic university could deny family medical leave to gay employees.

Hopefully, this is just a start, with full marriage equality around the corner.