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Hawaii Governor Signs Civil Unions Into Law

Becomes 7th state to recognize legal status

By the Associated Press

Posted Feb 24, 2011 8:02 AM CST

(AP) – Hawaii governor Neil Abercrombie signed same-sex civil unions into law yesterday, calling it "a triumph for everyone" that gay and lesbian couples will have the same state rights as married partners. Civil unions in the Rainbow State will start Jan. 1, 2012, making Hawaii the seventh state to permit them. "This bill represents equal rights for everyone in Hawaii, everyone who comes here. This is to me the essence of the aloha spirit," Abercrombie said at a signing ceremony.

A crowd of exuberant supporters yelled, cheered, and applauded as the Democrat inscribed his signature on the legislation, making it the first law he's enacted since he was elected in November. “We deserve the same rights as everyone else. It's been a long, long time coming," said a supporter.

Hawaii Senator Clayton Hee playfully gives Hawaii Gov. Neil Abercrombie a kiss on the head before he signs the Hawaii Civil Unions bill into law, Feb. 23, 2011 in Honolulu. (AP Photo/Eugene Tanner)

The invited guests clap and hug each other in celebration after Abercrombie signs the Hawaii Civil Unions bill into law at a ceremony held in Washington Place Wednesday, Feb. 23, 2011 in Honolulu. (AP Photo/Eugene Tanner)

Hawaii Gov. Neil Abercrombie signs the Hawaii Civil Unions bill into law at a ceremony held at Washington Place Wednesday, Feb. 23, 2011 in Honolulu. (AP Photo/Eugene Tanner)

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Hawaii Governor Signs Civil Unions Into Law

Becomes 7th state to recognize legal status

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gay rights • gay marriage • Hawaii • civil union • same-sex couples • same-sex marriage • Neil Abercrombie

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More Newser Stories

62% of US Backs Same-Sex Unions

And younger generation is much more likely to support gay marriage: poll

Next to Approve Same-Sex Unions? Hawaii

Senate approves civil unions bill; Gov. Neil Abercrombie will sign

Illinois Approves Civil Unions

Joins New Jersey; rule to take effect in July

E-Marriages: a New Trend for Same-Sex Couples?

Skype weddings allow couples to legally marry at home

Hawaii Guv Vetoes Same-Sex Civil Unions

GOP Lingle: I'm opposed to gay marriage

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