RIGA — Latvia will allow heterosexual and same-sex couples to register their partnerships under a law that took effect Monday, a move welcomed by LGBTQ campaigners. The law grants registered partners equal rights in managing their households, offers tax and social security benefits, and allows for emergency hospital visits. It is the first time same-sex couples have been granted legal recognition in Latvia. “The introduction of the partnership law is an important signal that all families in Latvia are protected, valued, and recognized,” Kaspars Zalitis, head of the Partners for Life advocacy group for LGBTQ rights, said in a statement.