Slovenian
parliament passes limited domestic-partnership bill

Same-sex couples in Slovenia will have limited rights under legislation just passed by that nation's parliament. The law will permit gay and lesbian couples to register their unions and give partners access to each others' pensions and property. It will not, however, allow them to have guests at the registration and, according to local radio, requires them to submit documents 30 days in advance proving they are sane, in good health, and not already married. LGBT rights groups say they realize the law is a small step but hope the government might some day enact full marriage rights. Earlier this month a civil partnership law went into effect in the neighboring Czech Republic. (Sirius OutQ News)