California: “Domestic Partnership” Status Extended to All Ages and Genders

“Domestic Partnership” is currently defined as two adults who have chosen to share lives in an intimate and committed relationship of mutual caring; however, it requires that the domestic partners be either of the same sex, or of the opposite sex and one or both over 62 years of age. In 2020, SB 30 will allow all couples, including opposite-sex couples both under 62 years of age, to enter into a domestic partnership.

Procedurally, the bill ensures that the Secretary of State (SOS) will make the necessary forms available on its website instead of available through the county clerk. Instructions explaining the rights and responsibilities of domestic partnership, as well as the process for termination, will also be made available on the SOS website. The law continues the existing fee structure, with an exemption for those partnerships where one or both partners are over the age of 62.

Action Items

1. Review the text of the bill here.
2. Review and update applicable policies for compliance, as needed.
3. Subscribers can call our HR Hotline at (833) 268-5531 or send an email to hrsolved@onedigital.com for further assistance.

The statements made herein are intended for HR. Solved.^SM program subscribers, are informational only, are not legal advice, and no attorney-client privilege is created by OneDigital. OneDigital makes no express or implied representations or warranties arising by law or otherwise, all of which are expressly disclaimed.

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