Italian Senate passes same-sex civil unions bill

Italy has taken its first step toward the legal recognition of civil unions between same-sex couples, overcoming staunch opposition from the Catholic church and last-minute political manoeuvring that nearly derailed the legislation.

By a confidence vote of 173-71, moments ago, the Italian Senate has approved civil unions. The bill now moves to the House of Deputies where easy passage is expected. 

LGBT groups are calling the win a bitter victory as it comes without the formal legalization of adoptions by same-sex parents. 

It's time Italy!