This will probably sink like a rock, but... Becker's first step: Domestic partners [View All]

[helderheid]

Gay couples applaud voluntary registry proposed by new mayor
By Derek P. Jensen
The Salt Lake Tribune
Article Last Updated: 01/11/2008 10:33:03 AM MST

Ralph Becker's first official action as mayor could bring a first to Utah - a citywide registry of domestic partners, including same-sex couples.

The novel move - fulfilling a priority campaign promise for Salt Lake City's new CEO - is designed to aid employers vacillating over whether to provide insurance benefits for cohabitants and other domestic partners.

Becker's proposed ordinance, unveiled Thursday, bucks the politics in conservative Utah - a state that rewrote its constitution in 2004 to ban gay marriage.

"It's a great step as we inch our way toward progress," said Mark Hofeling, a downtown resident who has been with his boyfriend, Jesse, nearly 10 years and, until now, resorted to power of attorney to validate their relationship in legal and health matters. "If this would give us more security, we would probably be inclined to do it."

The registry, likely to win the support of the City Council in Utah's left-leaning capital, would serve as a catalog of adult residents - gay or otherwise - who can voluntarily add their names as long as they provide proof that they cohabit and rely on one another as dependents.

Becker argues the mechanism would save businesses time and money and create a way for the city to recognize relationships of mutual support, caring and commitment.

"This is an opportunity for us to provide all of Salt Lake City's residents the same level of equality, dignity and respect," the mayor said.

Still, despite being common in about 20 states, the rainbow-colored catalog carries some controversy - particularly for conservative Utah legislators.

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http://www.sltrib.com/ci_7941081