New Law Allows For Unmarried Partners To Adopt

New York 1 – September 21, 2010

Unmarried partners, including gay couples, are now free to jointly adopt a child in New York State.

Governor David Paterson signed a law making the change on Sunday.

The law also puts “married couple” in the adoption statute, in place of what used to read “husband and wife.”

Bill sponsors say that is meant to ensure children get insurance and other benefits from both adults, as well as lifelong support even if couples split up.

Same-sex marriage is not legal in New York, but the state does recognize same-sex marriages from other states.