Fridae

The Israeli city of Tel Aviv announced the approval of new regulations last Thursday, which would grant same-sex couples some of the same benefits given to married couples.

Under the new rules, same sex couples will be eligible for discounts and benefits at cultural facilities, libraries, swimming pools and various city events, according to the Ha'aretz newspaper.

The move was the final step in the process after the municipality earlier this year approved in principle a proposal to grant unmarried couples the same benefits, which are accorded to couples officially married by the rabbinate.

Under the new regulations, "the Tel Aviv municipality will not discriminate against a person in the conferral of services due to his personal status. The municipality will treat couples known to the public, including single sex couples, as couples in every sense, and will confer to them the same discounts and benefits in public services which are provided to married couples."

Persons seeking benefits under the new regulations will have to submit an affidavit, signed by an attorney, to the municipality.