Colorado takes step toward offering DP benefits to state workers

A bill that would make domestic partners of state employees eligible for coverage under state group-benefit plans narrowly passed its first test Wednesday.

The bill, Senate Bill 88 from Sen. Jennifer Veiga, D-Denver, passed out of a Senate legislative committee by a 4-3 party-line vote after spirited debate.

“It is the right policy,” Veiga told committee members. “It is the right time.”

The bill is the more modest of two bills seeking to give greater standing to domestic partners. The other, House Bill 1260 from Rep. Mark Ferrandino, D-Denver, would make it easier for unwed couples, including gay couples, to plan their estates and share benefits in times of tragedy.

 See Colorado takes step toward offering DP benefits to state workers
The Denver Post