University seeks input
from those who use domestic partner benefits

While awaiting further court rulings on whether public employers can offer same-sex domestic partner benefits under the 2004 Marriage Amendment, the University is exploring alternatives that would allow it to continue to provide benefits to the same sex partners of employees. To that end, a series of sessions has been scheduled during which University leaders hope to hear from those who would be affected by the decision.

"The University is determined to find a solution to the challenges posed by the recent appeals court decision regarding partner benefits," says President Mary Sue Coleman. "We know that our ability to offer such benefits is essential to retaining our best faculty and staff, recruiting new employees to the University, and nourishing a campus climate in which all persons feel welcome and respected. Staff experts have been working very hard on these issues for the past several weeks."

Last month the Michigan Court of Appeals ruled that the Michigan Marriage Amendment, which defines marriage as "a union between one man and one woman," prohibits universities and other state public institutions from providing benefits to employees on the basis of a same-sex partner relationship.

The decision by the appellate court reversed a previous ruling in Ingham County Circuit Court that said the amendment did not prohibit employers from offering such benefits. The American Civil Liberties Union of Michigan, one of the original plaintiffs, has filed an appeal.

"While the University is hopeful the Michigan Supreme Court will uphold the right of public employers to offer partner benefits, the University must plan for alternatives," says Laurita Thomas, associate vice-president of human resources. She invites affected individuals to attend one of a series of meetings designed to gather information that may help design an alternative benefit plan.

"We want the plan to be competitive and cost effective, but it also is crucial that it offer the best possible opportunity for those who are currently receiving benefits to continue to receive them," Thomas says.

The sessions are:

• 5:3-6:30 p.m., March 27, MCHC Auditorium, C.S. Mott Children's Hospital

• Noon-1 p.m., March 28, Michigan League, Room D

• 10:30-11:30 a.m., March 29, Michigan Union, Pond Room

Participants are asked to contact Jackie Simpson at 763-4186 or jdsimps@umich.edu to confirm attendance. Those who cannot attend a session but wish to provide input may contact Gloria Hage, deputy general counsel, 764-0304, ghage@umich.edu, or Thomas, 763-1284, laurita@umich.edu.

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