Out Cleveland City Councilmember Joe Santiago joined twelve colleagues in creating a domestic partner registry for both same- and opposite-sex couples.

Although it is non-binding, the registry allows employers, hospitals and other organizations to grant privileges typically reserved for married couples, according to The Plain Dealer.

The paper reports:

But several council members reported intense pressure from local pastors, who oppose domestic partner benefits on religious grounds. At one point Monday afternoon, a rattled Kevin Conwell, a co-sponsor of the legislation, seemed ready to change his position.

“I had more than 70 calls over the weekend,” Conwell said.

Conwell ultimately voted with the majority. The final vote was 13-7.

The legislation next heads to Mayor Frank Jackson, who plans to sign the registry into law, a spokeswoman said late Monday. The registry will take effect 120 days after the mayor signs.