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West Hollywood finds time to give legal benefits to throuples
West Hollywood’s City Council unanimously approved an ordinance recognising polyamorous relationships, giving registered groups of partners access to some legal benefits similar to those available to married couples. The measure applies to consenting, non-incestuous relationships and is intended to extend protections to people whose relationships involve more than two partners.
The benefits include hospital and jail visitation rights for all registered partners, as well as expanded rental rights for tenants. The article gives no further details about how registration will work or when the ordinance takes effect.
In short
- West Hollywood unanimously approved recognition for polyamorous relationships.
- Registered partners gain visitation and expanded rental rights.
- The ordinance applies to consenting, non-incestuous groups.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Recognising registered polyamorous relationships can give people in committed households practical protections, such as being able to visit a partner in hospital or jail and greater security in their home. Supporters may see this as equal treatment for consenting adults and a way to reflect the family arrangements people already live in.
The case against
Critics may argue that extending benefits designed around couples to groups raises questions about how registration, eligibility and competing claims should be handled, especially where the ordinance’s details are not yet clear. They may also believe that legal recognition should remain tied to marriage or two-person partnerships, and that any broader change warrants careful public debate and safeguards.