NYC passes partner law

New York City mayor Michael Bloomberg signed a bill Tuesday extending the city's domestic-partner benefits to same-sex couples visiting the city who are joined together in a legally recognized relationship. The law covers gay men and lesbians from cities and states that have domestic-partnership laws or recognize same-sex unions as well as nations that legally recognize gay relationships. To receive the city's domestic-partner benefits--which include hospital visitation rights and health benefits--visitors must show a certificate indicating they have legally registered their relationship back home.