Same-sex couples to get rights

Uruguay will legalize civil unions for homosexuals and heterosexuals next month, making it the first Latin American country with a nationwide law to treat gay and straight couples alike, a lawmaker said.

The chamber of deputies passed legislation allowing gay and straight couples to form civil unions after living together for at least five years. The Senate has approved the measure but must consider deputies’ revisions.

Edgardo Ortuno, a member of the center-left ruling party, said he expected it to take effect by mid-December. Under the law, couples will be granted rights related to social security payments, pensions, inheritance and parenting.