One step closer to the fairness finish line

Years ago, the federal government was the pioneer in adopting benefits and policies that set the bar for fairness. Over time, as more and more businesses began operating on a global scale, the private sector realized that it must compete for the best and brightest and gradually assumed the leading role.  Last week, however, at the Senate hearing on the Domestic Partnership Benefits and Obligations Act, which would provide benefits for same-sex domestic partners of federal civilian employees on the same basis as spousal benefits, it became very apparent that the federal government is ready and willing to get back in the game as a leader for equality in workplace.

This was the second time, in as many years, that Senator Joe Lieberman (I-Conn.) has presided over a hearing to review whether the federal government’s policies for employment-related benefits are being applied in a fair manner.  The answer is, of course, no.  The difference between the hearing in September 2008 and the one held yesterday goes far beyond night and day.

For starters, the current Director of the Office of Personnel Management, John Berry, is openly gay.  He announced at the outset that President Obama emphatically supports the Domestic Partnership Benefits and Obligations Act, S. 1102, and has urged Congress to pass the measure.  Contrast this with last year’s hearing, when the Bush administration’s witness first testified that it did not have a position on the bill, then an aide relayed a message via her Blackberry, after which he stated they opposed the bill.

It was so important to hear OPM Director Berry recognize that the federal government can’t expect to attract the top talent if it can’t compete on a level playing field.  We know that there are hundreds of vacant federal jobs and no doubt there are skilled lesbian and gay workers who would love to serve their country, but can’t afford to give up benefits which help protect their families. 

Fundamental fairness belongs in the federal workplace just as it does in the private sector, and the Human Rights Campaign is working hard with Congress to demonstrate just that by making DPBO the law of the land.  Last week’s Senate hearing brings this critical legislation one step closer to the finish line.