Tucson committee pushes for DP registry

A Tucson city commission is seeking a way for gay and lesbian partners to show their commitment to each other by urging the creation of what would be Arizona's first domestic-partner registry. The 13-member Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Transgender Commission unanimously endorsed the creation of such a registry for couples who for whatever reason are unable to marry. Commission cochairwoman Nancy Robinett said the primary attraction would be for same-sex couples but that it would also be open to others, such as seniors unable to marry because of pension or Social Security benefits. While offering few tangible benefits, the registry would provide same-sex couples a level of official recognition, Robinett said. "The more significant aspect is the ability to say to family and friends that we have a partnership" and a form of official recognition to back it up, she said. The commission hopes to present the issue to the city council this spring. Tucson mayor Bob Walkup, a Republican, said he supports the idea in concept, adding that the council hasn't been presented with a specific proposal.