Michigan Will Provide Benefits to All Domestic Partners of State Employees

This Wednesday, the Michigan Civil Service Commission voted to extend health benefits to domestic partners of state employees. Domestic partner, as defined by the agreement, includes all live-in boyfriends and girlfriends of state workers, regardless of sexual orientation. The extension of benefits will not take effect until October. The issue had been reviewed under Democratic Gov. Jennifer Granholm?s administration, but was stalled by legal issues regarding wording. While current Governor Richard D. Snyder (R) questions the cost of the decision, given Michigan?s challenging budget this year, many are relieved by the agreement. Penny Gardner, president of a local LGBT advocacy group, called the decision ?a great breakthrough.? Gardner is an employee of Michigan State University, which offers similar benefits approved by the state, though her partner does not receive them because Gardner works part-time. In solidarity with state workers, Gardner said, "I know what it?s like having to make choices others don't have to make." Related Media Coverage:WILX.com - January 26, 2011"State Employees' Domestic Partners Will Get Health Benefits"http://www.wilx.com/home/headlines/State_Employees_Domestic_Partners_Will_Get_Health_Benefits_114675514.html

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