The latest version of the bill now includes a phrase that says non-heterosexual couples have the right to “make medical decisions” and “hold a funeral” for their incapacitated or deceased spouse, both of which did not appear in the earlier version. The adjustment was made by the Rights and Liberties Protection Department (RLPD) after it had considered concerns collected from hearing held in major cities and from its website. LGBT media specialist Vitaya Saeng-aroon, however, said: “The bill mentions these rights as ‘examples’ [of the rights same-sex couples are entitled to] but without more details, how effective it is in practice is questionable.”He believed the RLPD intended to test the water. If the Cabinet approves the revision, the bill will head to the National Legislative Assembly (NLA) where more revisions and details will follow, he said. The bill, however, recognises same-sex couples can jointly manage debts and assets, inherit their spouse’s assets, and become a guardian for their spouse.

Source: The Nation Bangkok December 21, 2018 12:00 UTC