Civil unions have already been legalized in the states of Baden-Württemberg and Thuringia, but this is the first time homosexual partners will have the chance to apply for a civil union in Bavaria, a state known for being conservative. Previously, same sex marriages in Bavaria could only be documented by a notary.
Negotiations between the pro-business Free Demorats (FDP) and coalition partner the Christian Democratic Party (CSU) to make a readjustment to the current legal system had failed after the regional elections in autumn 2008.
The law goes into effect August 1.
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