Registration for domestic partnership became legal just a few months ago in WA.

One part of the regulations regarding domestic partners is getting little exposure: people over 62 can register, gay or straight.

This is a big help to hetero seniors. There are many poor elderly couples who live together who would rather be legally married but can't because they would literally be on the streets. Marriage would mean suffering a reduction in their social security benefits. They are living below the poverty line as it is.

It has been a sad situation for these poor elderly couples. Many have had ceremonies in religious venues understanding administrators because they feel guilty about living together.  Registering as domestic partners also helps alleviate the guilt.

Another big benefit to these seniors is that they gain specific rights in the medical arena. They are now essentially considered "family." Like married hetero couples, they can speak for each other in many medical emergencies. They have rights to be in critical care areas for visitation of domestic partners. Blood family members of the patient cannot exclude the domestic partner from the hospital.

This new legislation has been serious help for seniors in WA.

And for the WA notary public, this is another work opportunity in which we are truly helping our elderly.

Read a synopsis of the law here:

http://www.leg.wa.gov/pub/billinfo/2007-08/Pdf/Bill%20Reports/Senate%20Final/5336-S.FBR.pdf