A northern Mexican bishop Friday criticized the approval of a bill to recognize gay unions in the Mexican state of Coahuila.

It's the second such measure in the predominantly Roman Catholic nation.

According to the Associated Press, Roman Catholic Bishop Alonso Gerardo Garza in Piedras Negras said the law was an attack on the institution of marriage.

"This law seriously attacks the pillars of society," the bishop told reporters, reports Mexican newspaper El Universal. "We know that many of society´s problems are based on problems of marriage and the family, and we are sure these will grow," if the bill is signed into law.

El Universal reports that the measure would provide gay couples with numerous social benefits similar to those of married couple.

Coahuila Governor Humberto Moreira is expected to sign the bill into law, reports the AP.

The Mexico City assembly in November passed a similar measure.

Piedras Negras is across the border from Eagle Pass, Texas.

Until next time!