City of Oakland Park Takes Stand Against Florida's Amendment 2
Filed by: Anthony Niedwiecki
October 16, 2008 6:00 PM
Last night, the Oakland Park City Commission voted unanimously to approve a resolution opposing Amendment 2, Florida's so called "Marriage Protection Amendment." The commission passed the resolution because of the "potential adverse impact that it causes on the existing rights and future rights of unmarried Floridians." You can find a copy of the resolution here.
I applaud the city commission for taking a stand against this amendment because of the potential harm it will cause city employees and residents. Just like we have seen in other states that have passed similar amendments, Amendment 2 will put domestic partner benefits and registries for all unmarried couples in serious jeopardy. During these tough economic times, we should not be taking away any health, insurance, and pension benefits from anyone.
This once again shows why I am proud to be a resident of Oakland Park, a city that respects and defends ALL its residents. It is also why I am proud to run for City Commission in my city.
Oakland Park joins a growing number of groups and local governments citing the possible legal ramifications of the amendment which could take away existing benefits to thousands of employees throughout Florida.
• The Miami Beach City Commission and the Broward County Commission passed resolutions opposing Amendment 2.
• The Mayor and City Commission of West Palm Beach voted unanimously on Oct. 6. West Palm Beach was the first city in Florida to provide domestic partner benefits for families of city employees. The City of Lake Worth passed a similar resolution.
• The Broward County School Board voted on September 9, in a resolution that noted "the loss of domestic partner benefits could cause great harm to the education of the children of Broward County, as many BCSB employees would be forced to leave Florida and seek employment providing said benefits."
• Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Florida, the state's largest health insurer, opposes Amendment 2 predicting a major impact on its ability to provide benefits.
Thank you, Oakland Park!
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For an in-depth look at the legal issues surrounding Amendment 2, check out my ongoing series of posts:
- The Real Impact of Florida's Amendment 2
- Florida's Amendment 2: Florida Is No Connecticut!
For information on how to help fight Florida's Amendment 2, visit www.SayNo2.com.
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