TOLEDO, Ohio—A new city ordinance in Toledo allows gay or other unmarried couples to register their domestic partnerships.

The ordinance, passed by the Toledo City Council earlier this month, was signed into law by Mayor Carty Finkbeiner Nov. 21. The registry would serve as proof of eligibility for benefits such as health care.

Those who sign an affidavit at City Hall will receive a certificate and cards to give employers as proof of an unmarried but committed relationship.

The registry also could provide a basis for people to visit domestic partners in the hospital and pick up children at schools, supporters said, noting that the city has a domestic partnership registry for police officers and firefighters who have negotiated benefits in their collective bargaining agreements.

The Catholic Church is still fighting the registry. On Nov. 18 Bishop Leonard Blair urged the city’s Roman Catholics to speak out against the plan, saying it would weaken the institution of marriage.