The D.C. Council has approved a bill that would make it easier for gay and lesbian couples who marry in the nation's capital to get divorced.

The bill would let gay couples who married in Washington get divorced even if they no longer live in the district, provided they live somewhere that would not recognize their divorce. Under current law, one member of the divorcing couple has to live in Washington for six months before starting divorce proceedings.

The council approved the bill unanimously Tuesday in a preliminary vote. It will get a final vote before being sent to Mayor Vincent Gray for his signature.

The district began issuing marriage licenses to same-sex couples in March 2010. Six states also allow same-sex marriage.