Domestic Partners in Ohio

Having moved to Ohio recently from Iowa, I entered the workforce in the state just before "Issue 1" was voted on by the people of Ohio to be added to the states constitution. It passed, and the constitution of the state now reads:

"Be it Resolved by the People of the State of Ohio:
That the Constitution of the State of Ohio be amended by adopting a section to be designated as Section 11 of Article XV thereof, to read as follows:

Article XV

Section 11. Only a union between one man and one woman may be a marriage valid in or recognized by this state and its political subdivisions. This state and its political subdivisions shall not create or recognize a legal status for relationships of unmarried individuals that intends to approximate the design, qualities, significance or effect of marriage."

As I am currently employed by a Division 1 state-assisted institution of higher education in the state of Ohio, I know first hand that my employer, including other state colleges in Ohio (Bowling Green State University, Miami University, The Ohio State University, and Wright State University) have not eliminated domestic partner benefits from their current employee benefit packages. In my opinion, this is in direct violation of the Constitution of the State of Ohio. When I questioned my employer, the reply I received was that the institution would continue to offer domestic partner benefits until a lawsuit warranted them to fight for their continuation. I was dumbfounded.

Furthermore, some institutions have begun to advertise for position openings for the next year, and have included in the advertisements the fact that their employee benefits include those for domestic partners! In addition to ignoring the state constitution, they are now advertising their defiance.

I plan to give the attorney general a call sometime this week and ask that office to explain the exact legal meaning of "Issue 1" and whether or not these institutions are in willful violation.