Health insurance provider Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield is setting a precedent in small business coverage for the state of Colorado. Beginning next summer, Anthem will be providing healthcare coverage for same-sex domestic partnerships for small business employees and their families.

While Anthem and other health insurance companies have already begun offering coverage to same-sex couples and their dependents, this new offer will be the first of its kind for small businesses. The number of small business owners in Colorado totals roughly 142,000.

The owners and their employees will be given the benefit of this new coverage with no additional cost. If an employee wishes to enroll, they simply follow an application process which includes submitting an Affidavit of Domestic Partnership and a Colorado Uniform Employee Application. The Affidavit of Domestic Partnership attests to the dedication of the partners, a shared residence and the acceptance of one another’s welfare. In signing the Affidavit, the couple is also verifying that neither person is currently married.