DENVER — The governor has signed a bill that will make it easier for gays and lesbians and other unmarried couples to leave property to their partners.

Gov. Bill Ritter signed House Bill 1260 Thursday. It allows any two, unmarried adults to become one another’s designated beneficiary, granting them a number of rights.

They include being able to make funeral arrangements for each other, receive death benefits and inherit property without a will.

The bill was backed by gay and lesbian groups. Supporters say it will also help seniors who don’t marry for financial reasons and people who can’t afford a lawyer to draft a will.

Opponents argued that voters rejected a proposal to create domestic partnerships, which included some of the same rights.

The law will take effect July 1.