David Smith, spokesman for Human Rights Campaign, a gay-positive group, said that his organization was gratified by the vote. It's just a shame that that has to be controversial . The amendment was defeated 226 to 194. Washington DC is expected to be the 114th city offering domestic benefits in the near future. Typically, these registries will record same-sex partnerships where both spouses are over the age of 18.
Some couples receive a certificate indicating their status.
Registries have no force in law and does not grant any rights, privileges or responsibilities to the couple. One pastor and three Christians, all male, spoke against it. The vote was 3 to 1 in favor. Those for it said it was important for one segment of the population to have more of an official body to recognize their commitment to each other. The others primarily were arguments centered around Christianity and the issue of undermining the institution of marriage by allowing this kind of process.