Delaware has become the eighth state to legalize civil unions and domestic partnerships for same-sex couples.

Gov. Jack Markell signed the legislation Wednesday night at an event at The Queen theater in Wilmington.

At the event, Markell said the legislation is a historic moment for the state. He said it serves the greater good to speak out and oppose bias, prejudice or outdated laws that "lessen any one of us."

The law gives gay couples the same rights, benefits, and obligations as married couples. It goes into effect next year.