Publix will extend insurance plans to same-sex spouses of employees who are legally married.
The company announced that it will open enrollment on Jan. 1 for any employee who can who show proof of lawful marriage in a state where same-sex unions are allowed.
The couples will get the same health care coverage as any heterosexual couple.
Nadine Smith, executive director of Equality Florida, an LGBT-rights group, says not having a consistent statewide policy recognizing same-sex partners when it comes to insurance coverage sends a bad message to possible hires.
“Not only is it the right thing to do, but from a business perspective, it’s crazy that we live in a state where the protections vary from city-to-city from city-to-county,” said Smith. “It impedes bringing the best and the brightest in our state.”
National companies like Target, Amazon.com and Marriott are calling for an end to Florida’s ban on gay marriage.
Same-sex couples in Florida might be allowed to marry on Jan. 6, after a federal judge lifts the stay on his ruling.
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