Domestic Bennie Debate Back at County Council

None by KCPW

(KCPW News) On the controversial topic of health benefits for domestic partners, the Salt Lake County Council has been through the debate more than once. But this time around, a plan from Councilmember Jenny Wilson focuses on "adult designees" rather than non-married couples:

"Even if it's an extended family member - an aunt, cousin or sister - if you can prove because you share expenses that you really are dependent on one another, that would qualify under this plan," says Wilson.

She believes expanding the plan will have minimal cost to the county and will gain the support of other councilmembers previously opposed to offering benefits for gay and lesbian partners. Councilman Mark Crockett says he's open to the new proposal - and he cast the deciding vote in opposition to the old one. Freshman Councilman Jeff Allen isn't so sure.

"I would not vote for something that would provide for domestic partners," says Allen. "I don't think that's our job."

Allen would prefer the county offer employees the chance to put money into a health savings account, which could then be used for health insurance to cover anyone the employee chooses.

Yesterday, the County Council agreed to evaluate Health Savings Accounts along with Wilson's plan - which is similar to one adopted by the Salt Lake City Council last year.

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