Critics of AB 25, sponsored by Carole Migden, D-San Francisco, say it undermines the will of California voters who last year approved Proposition 22 by 62 percent. The initiative recognizes marriage as only between a man and a woman. It's outrageous that these legislators are trying to overturn the vote of the people.
Supporters maintain, however, that the bill provides basic rights to loving couples.
One of the proposed benefits would allow same-sex partners to sue for wrongful death, something currently outlawed. Sharon Smith, partner of Diane Whipple, the San Francisco woman who was mauled to death in January by a dog in San Francisco, spoke in defense of AB 25. Smith has filed a wrongful death suit, even though she lacks legal rights to proceed. Like Thomasson, Williams testified against AB 25. However, there is a distinct difference between the concept of traditional marriage and that of domestic partnerships.