A proposal to extend some of the rights of marriage to same-sex couples and others who can't legally marry, such as siblings, is winning little support amid Rhode Island's debate over legalizing gay marriage.

The legislation would grant some rights associated with insurance coverage, health care decisions and inheritance to so-called "reciprocal beneficiaries." Relatives would also be eligible for the legal relationship so long as each relative is single and over 18. Any two people who could legally marry would be ineligible.

A handful of states around the nation have created similar legal relationships. In Rhode Island, the idea is one of several alternatives being considered this year to a proposal to legalize gay marriage.

The legislation has groups on both sides of the gay marriage debate in rare agreement: neither side likes the idea of reciprocal beneficiaries, but for different reasons. No one spoke in favor of the measure at a legislative hearing Tuesday night.