On Oct. 9, state secretary Katarzyna Kotula announced that the partner‑relationship bill is ready for debate, and if adopted it will require new state registers and urgent implementation.
Bill ready for debate
On October 9, state secretary Katarzyna Kotula confirmed that the draft law on partner relationships is ready for discussion by the Sejm. If adopted, it will necessitate the establishment of national registers and prompt the enactment of new regulations.
Key provisions of the bill
The draft includes about twenty rights, such as joint tax settlement, inheritance, and access to a partner’s medical information. Couples could sign a notarised agreement and register it at the civil status office, mirroring provisions in the proposal for registered partner unions.
Not “partner relationships”, but “closest person status”
Because the Polish People’s Party (PSL) expressed concerns, the bill may be presented under the name “status of the closest person” rather than “partner relationships.” Władysław Kosiniak‑Kamysz, PSL leader, said the document covers this status and received positive remarks from President Karol Nawrocki.
Political support and opposition
Beyond PSL, some members of the ruling Law and Justice (PiS) parliamentarians have voiced support, focusing on ensuring regulated relationships beyond romantic marriage. President Nawrocki has declared readiness to sign the law, even if it covers non‑marital ties.
Implementation timeline and impact
The original draft had a one‑year vacuum period, giving 6‑7 months to set up registers. If the bill passes, the new registrations could expedite the launch of the regulations and grant same‑sex and heterosexual couples alike the same legal protections.
