A federal judge in New York is expected to hand down a decision in a landmark suit which challenges the legality of domestic partner benefits denied to opposite-sex couples.  In Forray v. Bell Atlantic, Paul Forray accuses Bell Atlantic of denying health care coverage to his domestic partner, Jeanine Muntzner, solely based on the fact the he is a man.

On August 4, 1998, Judge Robert Patterson heard arguments on the company's motion to dismiss the case.  Bell Atlantic argues that the sexist domestic partner benefits program violates no federal law.  The judge's ruling on the motion is expected soon.

"Domestic partner benefits should be available to everyone -- regardless of sex," NOW President Patricia Ireland said.  Ireland will be available to comment on the case when the decision is handed down.

Link to this release at http://www.now.org/press/10-98/10-07-98.html
To receive releases via e-mail, subscribe at http://www.now.org/press/signup.html