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SANTA FE — The Legislature made scant progress on one of Gov. Bill Richardson's highest priorities for the legislative session and virtually killed another.

The House on Sunday endorsed a watered-down version of the health coverage legislation that Richardson wants lawmakers to enact in the 30-day session that ends Thursday.

The bill, which passed 37-31, went to the Senate.

Richardson wants to extend health coverage to the roughly 400,000 New Mexicans who are without it, but lawmakers have been reluctant to make major alterations in the health care system this year.

The governor's proposal would expand government programs, enact insurance reforms and require businesses to contribute to a fund if they don't offer insurance to their workers.

The House bill lacks the mandates to have insurance and for employers to contribute.

It creates a Health Care Authority that would develop a plan and recommendations by July 2010 for expanding coverage, including an analysis of whether employers should contribute.

On Saturday, a Senate committee shelved another one of Richardson's top initiatives, which would allow for domestic partnerships. The move likely dooms the measure this session.

Richardson's support wasn't enough to overcome opposition from social conservatives who worry the measure is similar to recognizing gay marriage.

The Senate Judiciary Committee voted 6-4 to table the legislation. Two Democrats joined the panel's four Republicans in blocking the measure.

The legislation would give certain unmarried couples — homosexual or heterosexual — the same rights and benefits as married couples. The House narrowly approved the bill last month.

"I am extremely disappointed with the Senate committee's action," Richardson said in a statement. "This is a matter of civil rights and equity for all New Mexicans. I urge the Senate to follow the courageous action by the House and allow a full vote on this issue."

Supporters said they weren't giving up, despite the setback.

"It's not over until the session is over," said Linda Siegle, a lobbyist for Equality New Mexico. "It's not over until the bill passes. We'll be back next year and every year. It took 12 years to get the Human Rights Act."