Homosexual couples in the Netherlands would be permitted to register their relationship as a legally binding union under a proposed law.

The proposal, which has broad backing in parliament and is expected to become law in January 1998, would give registered same-sex couples nearly identical rights as married heterosexuals, except that gay couples would not be allowed to adopt children, said a Justice Ministry spokeswoman, Liesbeth Rensman.

Gay rights advocates say the law is a significant step toward recognizing gay marriages.

But a prominent gay organization said it would continue campaigning for adoption rights. “This is not enough,” said Sjoerd Beumer of the Dutch Federation for the Integration of Homosexuality.

Dutch society is known for its tolerance toward homosexuals, who also are welcome in the military.

Last week, a Honolulu judge ordered Hawaii to begin issuing gay couples marriage licenses. But the ruling was put on hold for a year while Hawaiian authorities appeal it.

President Clinton has signed a federal law stating the U.S. government doesn’t recognize gay marriages and allowing states to refuse to recognize homosexual unions licensed in other states.