City Introduces Amendment To Health Benefits Ordinance

El Paso City Council is introducing an amendment to the controversial, voter-approved ordinance that would keep gay and unmarried partners of city employees from obtaining health benefits.

The amendment calls for those who have had benefits since Nov. 10 to keep them. Domestic partners who are seeking benefits under their partners’ plan won’t be allowed to receive them.

The revision to the ordinance was brainstormed by City Representative Rachel Quintana during last week’s City Council meeting. It is seen as a way to prevent up to 200 people, including retirees and foster children, from losing the health benefits they currently receive from the city.

No public comment on the introduced ordinance will be allowed during the introduction of the amendment, according to the agenda.

A public hearing on the amendment is scheduled for Dec. 21, the next City Council meeting.