President Barack Obama will announce today that same-sex partners of federal employees get some benefits that are extended to family members, according to the Associated Press. The move will not include federal health benefits, however, as this would require legislative action.
This move comes as Obama is under increasing criticism from his gay and lesbian supporters for not moving quickly to fulfill campaign promises to overturn the Defense of Marriage Act and the military’s Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell policy.
Some movement has been made, however. OhMyGov! reported last month that the State Department was extending certain benefits to the gay and lesbian diplomats, including diplomatic passports, training, emergency evacuation and more.
An official speaking on condition of anonymity to the AP said that Obama would release more details later today. Check back with OhMyGov! for the latest.