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Taxpayers react to same-sex benefits debate

By Elizabeth Gentle - bio | email

HUNTSVILLE, AL (WAFF) - Thousands of taxpayer dollars for higher education are on the line.

A state lawmaker wants to keep public colleges from getting state funding if they offer insurance benefits to same sex couples.

The proposed bill going before state lawmakers in January could affect UA-Huntsville.

Some say it will prohibit institutions from hiring the best and brightest instructors.

Others worry what the financial cost will be in the end.

It's a debate that has people talking.

WAFF 48 News asked the question, "Is that fair?"

"It's supposed to be a free country. I mean, I guess it's ok. I'm married so we have insurance together. I don't know why it's such a big deal if they have insurance together or not. They are together, live together, pay bills together same thing a married couple would do," said taxpayer Christine Adams.

"I do not agree with providing those benefits. I think the legal binding of marriage is a determining factor. Same sex couples not legally married, cohabitating couples are not legally married. There is not the same right to benefits," said taxpayer Deree Tarwater.

'I think everybody should be treated fairly. To me it shouldn't matter what your preference is. That's your preference. Give benefits to one, give them to another," said taxpayer Teresa Jetton.

UAH is allowing faculty and staff to sign up for benefits for domestic partners of either sex.

In a statement from the school, they said, "The university made the decision in the context of one of our strategic goals, which is to create a positive supportive work environment in which faculty and staff can excel."

Republican Representative Duwayne Bridges drafted the proposed legislation.

He said the financial impact is the big question and it could likely be expensive to tax payers.

His other concern is that some claiming to be partners may try to get on the insurance just to have coverage.

If his bill passes, it would prohibit public universities from receiving state funds.

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