In 2008, the Michigan Supreme Court concluded that domestic partnership policies intended to provide health care benefits to same sex couples violated Michigan law. For example, benefits may be offered to state employees and “other qualified adults.”

Does Michigan recognize domestic partnerships?

For example, the state of Michigan doesn’t recognize domestic partnerships, but if you live in the cities of Ann Arbor, Detroit, East Lansing, or Kalamazoo, you can register for a domestic partnership if you’re at least 18 years old, not already married, not related by blood to your partner, and in a relationship of …

What qualifies as a domestic partner in Michigan?

The new ordinance defines domestic partners as two persons: Who declare that they are in a relationship of mutual support, caring and commitment. Who share the common necessities of life. Who are not related by blood in a manner that would bar marriage in the State of Michigan.

Which is the largest domestic partner insurance in Michigan?

However, BCBS of Michigan, which covers an estimated 50,000 businesses with fewer than 99 employees, is “by far the largest” insurer in the state to extend domestic partner benefits to small business customers, according to gay advocates, the News reports.

Are there any health plans for domestic partners?

Some insurers may be willing to sell private health plans as family plans to domestic partners, for instance you can check with a major insurer like Blue Cross Blue Shield to see what options they have. Often major insurers will let you customize non-group, non-Marketplace, private plans.

Are there any domestic partnership laws in Michigan?

Even though there’s no statewide recognition of domestic partnerships in Michigan, there are certain local governments that do recognize these legal relationships. If you’d like to learn more about Michigan domestic partnership laws, or other laws related to domestic relations, you should speak to an experienced family law attorney near you today.

Is the federal government required to provide domestic partner benefits?

It’s important to note that companies are not required by federal law to provide domestic partner benefits even if they offer coverage to married couples, but some states and municipalities do mandate that businesses offer coverage to unmarried couples.