Catholic Charities in DC cuts benefits

Employees at Catholic Charities were told Monday that the social services organization is changing its health coverage to avoid offering benefits to same-sex partners of its employees -- the latest fallout from a bitter debate between District officials trying to legalize same-sex marriage and the Catholic Archdiocese of Washington.

A letter describing the change in benefits was e-mailed to employees Monday, two days before same-sex marriage will become legal in the District. Starting Tuesday, Catholic Charities will not offer health benefits to spouses of new employees or to spouses of current employees who are not already enrolled in the plan.

"We looked at all the options and implications," said the charity's president, Edward J. Orzechowski. "This allows us to continue providing services, comply with the city's new requirements and remain faithful to the church's teaching."

Read the rest here.