Today, FreedomOhio called on the state of Ohio to begin offering spousal insurance coverage to same-sex couples. Following a recent decision by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, health insurers and now required to offer their family plans to all couples. While the decision marks a breakthrough for same-sex couples, the federal government will not enforce it until 2015.
In response, FreedomOhio Executive Director Ian James issued the following statement:
“This decision is exciting, but without the equal protection of marriage, Ohioans continue to live without the most basic of legal protections. These discriminatory policies have real consequences for real people like David Gutierrez, who works for the Ohio Secretary of State. David who has bravely served his country in the United States Navy, is married to James Winnett. David recently tried to add James to his spousal insurance, but was denied because the state of Ohio does not recognize their marriage as legal.
“David and James are just two of the many Ohio citizens who are denied access to a vital service like health insurance—a service they are requiredby law to purchase. Why? Unfortunately it’s because while the rest of the nation moves forward, Ohio continues to hold tightly to a costly and unnecessary policy.
“With the March 31st ACA deadline for coverage fast approaching, Ohio must act quickly. FreedomOhio is calling on Governor Kasich and the Ohio Legislature to take action to ensure that all of Ohio’s public employees have equal access to insurance plans that fit the needs of their families. It’s a common sense approach that will save taxpayers money, and offer every family the protection and coverage they deserve.”
