PROVIDENCE, R.I. – Rhode Island officials have issued guidelines for gay couples wanting to apply for a civil union.
According to the state’s Department of Health, both individuals in a couple must be at least 18 and of the same gender. They cannot be married or in a civil union with another individual.
Individuals seeking a civil union must present identification and a birth certificate or other documentation of birth. The couple must apply in person at a city or town office and sign a civil union license in the presence of a municipal clerk. The licenses cost $24. Ceremonies must be performed within three months of the license being issued.
Gov. Lincoln Chafee, an independent, signed legislation last week that authorized the state to offer civil unions.
