As used in this article, unless the context otherwise requires:(1) 'Civil union' means a relationship established by two eligible persons pursuant to this article that entitles them to receive the benefits and protections and be subject to the responsibilities of spouses.(2) 'Civil union certificate' means a document that certifies that the persons named in the certificate have established a civil union in this state in compliance with this article.(3) 'Department' means the department of public health and environment.(4) 'Marriage' means the legally recognized union of one man and one woman.(5) 'Partner in a civil union' or 'party to a civil union' means a person who has established a civil union pursuant to this article.(6) 'Spouses' means two persons who are married pursuant to the provisions of the 'Uniform Marriage Act', part 1 of article 2 of this title.(7) 'State registrar' means the state registrar of vital statistics in the department.Added by 2013 Ch. 49, §1, eff. 5/1/2013.L. 2013: Entire article added, (SB 13-011), ch. 49, p. 148, § 1, effective May 1.
Colorado Legal Code