12/17/09: On December 16, 2009, the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs marked up S 1102, the Domestic Partner Benefits and Obligations Act. This legislation, introduced by Senators Joseph Lieberman (I-CT) and Susan Collins (R-ME), the Chair and Ranking Member of the Committee, respectively, would extend to same-gender domestic partners many of the benefits and obligations currently available to married couples. Since this is not a matter that can be resolved in contract negotiations, NTEU is seeking legislation that would extend these important benefits to same-gender partners.

Representative Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) has sponsored companion legislation in the House. The House version of the Domestic Partner Benefits and Obligations Act has also been approved by Committee and is awaiting floor action. NTEU is hopeful that floor consideration will come early next year in both the House and Senate. NTEU will be working to win additional commitments from members of Congress on this important federal employee issue.

If you have further questions as to this legislation, please contact Kurt Vorndran in the Legislation Department at 202.572.5500, ext. 7056.