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Agency That Manages State Employee Benefits Wants Clarification On Gay Marriage Ban Ruling

Department Of Employee Trust Funds Says Its Unclear On How Benefits May Be Impacted

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Last week’s federal ruling overturning Wisconsin’s ban on same sex-marriage hasn’t just left county clerks unsure of how to proceed: The Department of Employee Trust Funds (ETF), which manages state benefits for employees, also says it needs clarification on the ruling.

In a message on the ETF website, officials promised to provide information to its members as soon as possible about how things like health benefits, life insurance and pensions for state workers might have been affected by last week’s federal court decision. The agency’s posted statement did not say whether it was getting questions from same-sex couples and, if so, how many.

Since 2010, the domestic partners of state employees registered under Chapter 40 have been able to receive health benefits. A domestic partner can also be designated to receive death benefits.

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U.S. District Judge Barbara Crabb, who struck down the ban, will hear more arguments on Friday. The American Civil Liberties Union has filed a brief with Crabb to allow gay marriages in Wisconsin and recognize such marriages performed in other states. Attorney General J.B. Van Hollen, on the other hand, is asking for the federal ruling to be put on hold, pending appeal.

ETF expect to have more clarification on June 19, when Crabb is expected to issue a ruling on the state’s request.