Gay Couples Pay More for Less

by Eileen AJ Connelly | Associated Press

After Judy Weatherly lost her job as a director at a mental health clinic, the price she and her spouse, Nancy Burke, had to pay for health insurance skyrocketed.

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Uncle Sam Has No Wedding Gift of Benefits for Same-Sex Couples

by Joe Davidson | Washington Post

When Lorilyn “Candy” Holmes and Darlene Garner get married Tuesday, it will be a joyous and historic occasion.

But an uninvited uncle will lurk among the well-wishers. They won’t notice him, but Holmes and Garner will know he’s there. His disapproving presence will linger, unseen, but not unfelt.

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Arizona! Act Now to Protect State Employee Benefits

Last night, in the middle of the night, the Senate passed SB 1145. Among other things this bill changes the definition of the word “dependant” to specifically target for removal the domestic partner benefits that were afforded to state employees only last year.

“At a time in our state’s history of unprecedented financial crisis and job loss and when the majority of Americans believe healthcare is one of our foremost issues, removing access to health care for Arizona families is a tragedy,” said Barbara McCullough-Jones, Executive Director of Equality Arizona. She continued, “Arizona took a giant step forward last year recognizing the universal desire of Arizonans to be responsible for our families with the adoption of domestic partner benefits for state employees. News from the Arizona Senate today that they have voted to remove domestic partner benefits is a crushing blow to the survival of all families in Arizona.”

One year ago through an administrative rule change the definition of “dependent” was written to include domestic partners and their dependents. It also extended coverage to dependents under 23 if they are a full time student. For the first time, both heterosexual and same-sex couples became eligible for equal employment benefits. One year ago ALL employees of the State of Arizona were allowed to provide healthcare for their families.

Those benefits are in jeopardy TODAY. Right now, the house is in Caucus, this afternoon they will decide if the budget changes approved last night will be sent to Governor Brewer’s desk for signature. Call your Representative and Governor Brewer RIGHT NOW, and let them know it is unfair to strip access to healthcare away from Arizona families.

find out how to get involved here

New Mexico Agrees To Provide Retirement Health Insurance To Domestic Partners Of State Employees

ALBUQUERQUE – In response to a lawsuit brought by the American Civil Liberties Union, New Mexico has agreed to provide retirement health insurance to the domestic partners of state employees.

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