Newly re-elected Mayor Annise Parker took executive action to allow same-sex benefits to gay and lesbian couples on Wednesday. Pointing to recent court decisions against the federal Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA), the Mayor contends that it is within her power to take this action for city employees who were married outside of Texas. Opponents are already lining up though, saying it is in violation of voter approved additions to the Texas constitution and the City of Houston charter. (Video: KPRC 2 News)
MORE LOCAL COVERAGE OF THIS STORY:
- Houston to offer same-sex spousal benefits (Chron.com)
- Houston to allow benefits for legally married same-sex couples (KTRK 13 News)
- Mayor Parker: Benefits will be offered to same-sex spouses of city employees (KHOU 11 News)
- City of Houston Extends Insurance Benefits to Same-Sex Spouses of Employees (KUHF Public Radio)
- Parker announces new policy regarding benefits for same sex spouses of city employees (Your Houston News)
- Houston to offer benefits to same-sex couples (AP)
