This expansion of eligibility to buy into the state's health policy is a MINIMAL step that should be taken to improve the fairness of the state's treatment of its gay and lesbian employees. It also will contribute to the competitiveness of the state as an employer of choice for talented workers. People are misreading this regulatory change as the state paying for these benefits. Instead, the change would allow workers to add their domestic partners at their own cost. Unfortunately, this will not provide equal treatment for gay and lesbian couples as compared to their heterosexual peers. However, it will at least give people the option to have health coverage where they otherwise may be denied by a private insurance plan.

I encourage folks who are against this measure to be pragmatic. This is nowhere near parity with heterosexual couple's benefits. It will not cost the taxpayers additional premium funds. It will not encourage heterosexual marriages to dissolve, or discourage them from happening in the first place. Western Civilization will continue despite a gay state employee's partner being able to go to the doctor when they have the flu. In fact, you will be just a little bit safer when he is treated and not spreading it to you. Time to think for yourselves instead of letting pundits do it for you. Encourage the state to enact this minimalist change.

And, Governor Kaine, shame on you for waiting until the end of your term to do this when it is to no consequence to you politically, especially knowing that our new Governor will probably change the regulation back within a week of taking office. Someone who's a friend only when no one is looking is no friend at all.