RI: Fate of D.P. Funeral Rights Unclear

It remains unclear how Rhode Island governor Don Carcieri, who has vetoed over 20 bills recently, will approach a bill granting domestic partners the right to make funeral arrangements for their deceased partners.

The bill represents a pro-gay advance in the New England state, which unlike its neighbors has yet to vote on same-sex marriage rights. Governor Carcieri opposes marriage equality and would veto such a bill.

According to the Providence Journal, the funeral rights bill "would add 'domestic partners' to the list, in current law, of people who can legally make arrangements for a deceased person's funeral, cremation or burial" when no prior funeral contract exists.

Carcieri could sign the bill, veto it, or allow it to become law without his signature. He has not indicated which course he will choose, according to the Providence Journal.