Petition questions legality of benefit plan

The Public Employees Benefits Program filed a motion for declaratory judgment Tuesday in 3rd District Court to determine whether offering domestic partner benefits to Salt Lake City employees is legal.

The petition comes only days after Salt Lake City Mayor Rocky Anderson signed an executive order giving city employees the opportunity to have their unmarried partners sign up for health-care benefits. PEHP officials say they will not administer benefits to unmarried couples until they get approval from the court.

Several have argued that the city's order undermines the institution of marriage and violates Utah's Marriage Recognition statute passed in 2004. Others believe the move is in step with equality for all employees.

PEHP currently carries health-care plans on city employees who are either single or legally married to members of the opposite sex.

Tuesday's filing asks the court to consider coverage options as they compare with statewide policies and legislation. PEHP also asked the court to expedite the order as the city wishes to implement the policy as soon as possible.