More than three-quarters of employers have reacted positively to the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision to overturn the 1996 Defense of Marriage Act, new research reveals.
The study, “Benefits for Same-Sex Couples: Impact of the DOMA Decision,” published by the International Foundation of Employee Benefits Plans, examines how employers are addressing the U.S. Supreme Court’s landmark decision to overturn DOMA, which barred same-sex spouses from securing federal benefits afforded to married, heterosexual couples. Still on the books is a provision of the law that permits states to refuse to recognize same-sex marriages granted under the laws of other states.
The foundation report reveals that 77.1 percent of employers have reacted very positively (35.6 percent) or somewhat positively (41.5 percent) to the DOMA ruling. Less than one-quarter have reacted negatively.
However, the survey also notes that that two-thirds (66 percent) of employers are reluctant to modify their employee benefits and policies until the government provides “further clarification and guidance” on the ruling’s impact.