Domestic partner bill advances

Senate OKs couples making joint medical and funeral decisions

Proponents said domestic partners should not be denied the ability to be treated as family during times of medical crisis and death. Seniors groups, including the Alzheimer's Association, back the bill, and pointed out that many elderly heterosexual couples decide not to marry for emotional or financial reasons.

Sen. Andrew P. Harris, a Republican who represents Baltimore and Harford counties, pushed for the affidavit requirement, arguing that the partnerships are too loosely defined. Garagiola, who had been concerned the change would create an unnecessary obstacle, decided to allow it yesterday, saying that having another legal document cements the legitimacy of these relationships.

Republicans failed to amend the bill in other ways. One such proposal would have exempted hospitals owned by religious institutions, and another aimed to ensure that domestic partnerships are not taught in public schools. Sen. C. Anthony Muse, a Prince George's County Democrat, crossed party lines to vote for those amendments.

Muse has emerged as a key figure in the gay rights debate. While opposed to same-sex marriage, he said last month that he had not staked out a position on civil unions. Then last week, he said he would not support civil unions but might consider affording rights beyond the three domestic partner bills.

Yesterday, he said he had not decided on the medical-rights bill. "Certain rights should be afforded to all," he said, adding that he does not want to "create something that redefines marriage."

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