As reported by 365gay, California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger recently signed a law that will go into effect on January 1st protecting LGBT seniors in senior care facilities and nursing homes.

"Some members of the (LGBT) community living in nursing homes have been denied their most basic rights, including the simple choice to spend time with a loved one, because of their sexual orientation or gender identity," said Geoff Kors, Executive Director of Equality California. "We appreciate the support of Gov. Schwarzenegger and the legislature for approving this measure, which will proactively create a culture of respect and understanding for all seniors living in care facilities."

The new laws requires healthcare professionals who deal primarily with the senior community to attend an anti-discrimination training program.

365gay reports, "Basic rights, such as the choice to live in the same nursing home with a partner and the right to hospital visitation, are routinely denied to same-gender couples in older age, according to a 2000 study from the Policy Institute of the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force.

The study also found that same-gender partners lack essential protections, including Medicaid benefits and access to pensions, which typically protect the homes and retirement funds of surviving spouses who are married."

Sounds like a great step forward for gay seniors. Hopefully, we're moving towards getting these types of laws implemented on a national level.