Federal government implements DOMA ruling, begins extends key federal employee programs

On Friday, June 28, the Office of Personnel Management issued a memo explaining that it has begun implementing the Supreme Court's landmark ruling in Windsor v. United States, which on Wednesday struck down Section 3 of the so-called Defense of Marriage Act, meaning that many federal protections of marriage will soon be extended to legally married same-sex couples. 

The memo explains:

There are numerous benefits that are affected by the Supreme Court's decision, and it is impossible to answer today every question that you may have. Nevertheless, I want to assure you that the U.S. Office of Personnel Management is committed to working with the Department of Justice to ensure swift and seamless implementation of the Court's ruling.  

The document goes on to explain guidelines regarding several employee protections, including health insurance, life insurance, dental and vision insurance, retirement, and flexible spending accounts. Read the full document HERE.  

The programs, according to Thomas Richards, the Director of Communications for the OPM, will be available even for married same-sex couples who live in a state that does not respect their marriage. BuzzFeed reports that Richards said, "These benefits will be available to any Federal employee or annuitant who has a valid marriage license, regardless of their State of residency." 

Read the full memo HERE