Springfield Reverses Vote, Will Uphold Civil Union Benefits

Story by Kate Sosin, courtesy of the Windy City Times:

The City of Springfield has reversed its decision not to extend partner benefits to civil union spouses, after a city committee came under fire for voting to deny the benefits based on financial concerns.

The Joint Labor/Management Health Care Committee, a Springfield committee comprised of city staffers and retirees, had voted to keep its eligibility standards for insurance, which did not include civil union spouses.

LGBT activists argued that the vote violated the letter and spirit of the civil union act, which went into effect in June.

The Civil Rights Agenda (TCRA) announced on Dec. 10 that the committee had voted unanimously to reverse its decision and extend the benefits.

Read the whole story here.