HB2301 - 452R - House Bill Summary

House of Representatives

HB 2301

domestic partnerships; equity

Sponsors: Representatives Gullett, Brotherton, May, Binder et al.

DPA	Committee on Judiciary
X	Caucus and COW
	Third Read
	As Passed the House

HB 2301 gives domestic partners the same legal rights as immediate family members for certain enumerated legal interests.

Current Status

HB 2301 was amended in the Judiciary Committee to add a conditional enactment and make a technical change.

History

Domestic partner registration gives legal recognition to personal relationships that meet certain criteria. Currently, Arizona does not legally recognize domestic partnerships. Four states (California, Hawaii, Massachusetts and New York) make domestic partner registration available.

Provisions

· Grants domestic partners the same right as an immediate family member with regard to:

v Intestate succession.

v Appointment as a personal representative for purposes of probate.

v Appointment as a guardian of an incapacitated person.

v Appointment as a conservator of the estate of a minor or other protected person.

v Interest in life insurance.

v Health care decisions when the patient is unable to communicate. There is an exemption if the patient and domestic partner have legally ended their relationship. Also authorizes an unregistered domestic partner to make the decisions.

HB 2301 was amended in the Judiciary Committee as follows:

§ Adds a conditional enactment so the bill will not become law unless HB 2309, which provides a mechanism for registration of domestic partnerships, is enacted into law.

§ Makes technical changes.

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§ 45th Legislature

§ Second Regular Session 2 February 1, 2002