I recently called the Human Resources department at the University of Virginia to enquire about the cost/benefit analysis of adding my partner to my health insurance plan. I was astounded when I was told that, according to current  state law,  Virginia state agencies and higher education institutions may only extend health benefits to Virginia-recognized marriages and their children . This was the first time I had ever experienced flat-out discrimination. It's disgraceful. Furthermore, it makes good business sense. 66% of the top private employers in Virginia offer at least this level of benefits.