DOMESTIC PARTNER BENEFITS

WHEREAS, the right to form nontraditional family units characterized by mutual affection, commitment and financial interdependence and, in many cases, child rearing is a fundamental right of every adult person; and

WHEREAS, the parties to such nonmarital relationships historically have been denied certain privileges routinely accorded to traditional family units, which benefits include inter alia, legal status and eligibility for certain benefits earned by employment; and

WHEREAS, many members of the American Federation of Teachers have established nontraditional family units; and

WHEREAS, certain benefits earned by employment are legitimate items for consideration in formulating contract proposals and in negotiations with health service providers:

RESOLVED, that the American Federation of Teachers recognize that domestic partner benefits are legitimate items to be considered in the formulation of contract proposals.