Obama extends benefits of gay federal workers

In a move that goes beyond the memo President Obama signed last June which permitted same-sex partners to use the government’s long term care insurance and other fringe benefits, he extended the range of benefits to same-sex partners of eligible federal workers to include access to medical treatment, relocation assistance, credit unions, and fitness centers. These benefits do not cover uniformed members of the military, however, but the House is working on a repeal of the “Don’t Ask Don’t Tell” law, so there is a chance they will cover same-sex couples of military personnel next year.

This extension of benefits comes in perfect alignment each year with June now being the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgendered Pride Month declared by Obama. Obama also ordered federal agencies last year to identify other benefits that could be offered to same-sex partners. Unfortunately, he is prevented by federal law from providing full federal benefits to same sex-partners. Read the full article here.