A bill to eliminate domestic partner benefits for state employees, including those at state universities, has passed the Michigan House. The state Senate is also heavily GOP. The gov. is too, but he doesn't seem so mean, only oblivious to anything but the bottom line and this bill would save the state all of $8 million a year.
Andries Coetzee is a linguistics professor at the University of Michigan. His partner Gary Woodall is in remission for cancer, which could recur at any time. Good health care insurance is essential for Gary. Even though the bill hasn't passed the Senate yet, Andries is looking for another job as he regrets not taking the job at New York University, which had also given Andries an offer 7 years ago. Another reason for that regret is that New York now offers gay marriage.
Andries is not the only employee at a state university or state agency who is looking for another job. Top talent can choose, even in tough economic times. Nearly all U of M competitors offer domestic partner benefits and most Fortune 500 companies do too. All a loss for Michigan.
There is a second issue here. Why do we insist our health care be provided by our employers?
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