CIVIL UNIONS ADOPTED:

Connecticut Gov. M. Jodi Rell signed landmark legislation that makes Connecticut the first state to recognize same-sex civil unions without court pressure. It joins Vermont and Massachusetts as the only states with laws that provide far-reaching benefits to same-sex couples. Vermont recognizes civil unions and Massachusetts has gay marriage, but the laws were enacted only after court fights.

Rell, a Republican, signed the bill about an hour after it was approved by the Democrat-controlled Senate on a 26-8 vote. The legislation grants gay and lesbian couples the same rights, privileges and obligations as married couples in Connecticut, but does not allow them to wed. The law takes effect on Oct. 1.