Washington, D.C. — Senators Joe Lieberman (I-Conn.) and Susan Collin (R-Maine) are once again trying to guarantee health insurance and other benefits for same-sex partners of federal employees.

"This legislation is the next step to achieving equality for the gay community," Lieberman said in a statement.

The Domestic Partnership Benefits and Obligations Act of 2011 would give same-sex partners access to health insurance, long-term care, Family and Medical Leave (FMLA), and federal retirement benefits.

It would also require that same-sex partners make financial disclosures and follow anti-nepotism laws.

"This change is both fair policy and good business practice," said Collins.

Collins and Lieberman have introduced the same legislation in the past two Congressional sessions.

The Congressional Budget Office estimates that the added benefits would cost $70 million/year, reported GayToday.com.