CARMEL, N.Y. (AP)  -- Unmarried residents of New York's suburban Putnam County could soon have an opportunity to enroll in a domestic partner registry.

A committee of county's legislature has voted to advance the proposal.

The president of the county's NOW chapter, Laura Leonard of Brewster, calls it a move toward equal rights under the law.

Says Legislator Sam Oliverio of Putnam Valley: "If you truly love someone, and are in a loving relationship, that relationship should be recognized."

Oliverio says the measure would bring Putnam in step with neighboring Westchester and Rockland counties.

1010 WINS Boroughs & 'Burbs: Lower Hudson Valley