Benefits should include same-sex partners

As a new employee, I am writing to express my concern and sadness over a Penn State policy I recently discovered. The "Domestic Partner Insurance Benefit" covers other-sex partners but is not inclusive of same-sex partners.

It saddens me to know that while I may receive benefits for my partner, many of my friends and co-workers cannot, because of their sexual orientation.

And although the employee can still get benefits, they do not get the same benefits as their heterosexual counterparts.

I am aware that Penn State is looking at this policy, but as long as they only look and do not act, people will be without benefits.

I believe this is an opportunity for Penn State to lead the way. As this community's largest employer, they have a responsibility not only to their employees, but also to their families -- which come in many different forms.

In keeping with University President Graham Spanier's vision for making Penn State a more humane, tolerant and accepting environment, the addition of partner benefits for all who work here is a step in the right direction.

Tracy D. Fisk
Health Promotion Specialist
University Health Services