Same-Sex Marriage & The Affect On Employers

When California's Supreme Court overturned a state law that banned same-sex marriages in May, the impact on employers was not immediately clear. As lawyers and experts have begun to evaluate this decision, their opinions are starting to come out.

Writing in Harrison Ford's Management Update, Jeffrey Ashendorf says that "Employers should review the terms of their benefit plans and employee communications and adopt a clear definition of the term "spouse" to avoid any confusion. Additionally, if benefits are or will be offered to same-sex spouses or non-dependent domestic partners, employers should ensure that their payroll or accounting departments can comply with differing tax treatments under federal law."

Obviously the issue is controversial - and litigious - for employers. Take steps now to ensure you're in compliance.