Nevada is now one of more than a dozen states to recognize gay and lesbian domestic partnerships, according to the AP.
The Nevada law went into effect Thursday and officials said they received over 700 applications during its pre-registration period in September.
The law passed by the 2009 Legislature extends rights similar to those held by married couples-including community property, hospital visitation rights and the right to seek financial support after a breakup-to cohabitating couples, whether gay or straight.
Though it's not required, the Nevada domestic partner statute also states that companies that offer health care benefits to their employees may provide benefits to their domestic partners.
The new statute does not affect federal laws, meaning a person cannot claim a partner as a spouse to file a joint income tax return or secure Social Security benefits of a deceased partner.
State Sen. David Parks of Las Vegas, the openly gay sponsor of the bill, says it is about fairness and equality.
"It's a day I didn't think would come quite as quickly as it has," the Las Vegas Democrat said.
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