Problematic Arguments
Someone from Hudson wrote to the Beacon Journal to voice opposition to an editorial that headlined "Use your veto, governor" (regarding the Ohio DOMA bill). This person focuses on domestic partner benefits and how costly they are to companies, and economic reasons for discrimination.
First this person says that large corporations have DP benefits solely for the purposes of plitical correctness and PR. I don't believe that arguement is well researched or thought out. I work for a large corporation that offers DP benefits and it's certainly not for PR purposes. My company actually recruits gay and lesbian people for management, and it wants to be sure they have an attractive compensation package. They also seem to believe in something the writer doesn't - equal benefits. Large companies (as well as small and medium ones) want to recruit the best talent they can. If that means that talent is gay or lesbian, then they want that person regardless.
Another point is that adding domestic partnership benefits increases costs dramatically for a company who provides them. I've read studies that show it increases costs as little as 1%. (I'll update when I find that link - or let me know if you've seen a similar statement). Besides, is cost really what we're talking about here? This person also draws a breadcrumb trail between companies who have to provide DP benefits and taxpayers having to foot the bill. What is that about?
In the person's conclusion the point is again brought up about the majority having to pay for "the lifestyle choices of the few." Well, in that case, I'm sick of having to pay for the "lifestyle choices" of the straight people who get married, a right that is not afforded to me or my partner. We don't get those federal tax breaks, and we also have to pay more to ensure that our rights as a couple are put into writing. I think the writer here needs to rethink the other side before attacking the GLBT community from an economin point of view.
(source: Domestic partner benefits problematic)
