Anti-gay Civil Union Bill in Rhode Island

Via Pink News, a bill with serious anti-gay language has gay rights advocates urging RI Governor to veto the bill.

The bill is expected to be passed by the Senate this week but campaigners are deeply concerned about some of the religious provisions within it.

One clause allows any religious body – including faith-run schools, hospitals and cemeteries – to disregard civil unions. The clause says they – or their employees – cannot be fined or penalised for failing to recognise civil unions or provide goods and services in relation to civil unions.

Gay rights activists say the “dangerous” and “discriminatory” amendment will have severe consequences for gay people, who may find they are barred from making medical decisions for spouses if faith-run hospitals decide not to recognise civil unions.