‘Civil unions’ for gays get legal rights

The state will provide equal rights for same-sex couples in committed relationships known as civil unions under legislation signed into law in Trenton by Gov. Jon Corzine.

Corzine said the state had an obligation to give such partnerships the same legal rights as married couples.

“We must recognize that many gay and lesbian couples in New Jersey are in committed relationships, and deserve the same benefits and rights as every other family in the state,” Corzine said.

The bill was passed by lawmakers Dec. 14 after a ruling by the state Supreme Court affirming equal rights for same-sex couples, but deferring to the Legislature a decision on whether to call their relationships “marriage.” Lawmakers opted to call them “civil unions.”