University Times

The committee considering whether Pitt should extend health benefits to employees' same-sex partners met for the first time on June 16 and will hold ongoing meetings, a University spokesperson said.

Chancellor Mark A. Nordenberg, who appointed the 12-member committee in May, gave the group its official charge at its initial meeting, said Robert Hill, executive director of Public Affairs.

"The committee is charged to move as quickly as possible consistent with the need to give the matter full consideration," he added.

According to a May 29 Pitt announcement, the committee "will reports its findings and recommendations to the chancellor at the conclusion of the study." No other details have been released.

The committee includes representatives of Pitt faculty, staff, students, administrators, alumni and trustees. See May 31 University for a list of committee members.

Pitt and the American Civil Liberties Union agreed to suspend litigation on the issue of same-sex health benefits at least until the special committee finishes its work. Seven current and former University employees had sued the University, alleging that Pitt discriminates by denying health benefits to employees' gay and lesbian domestic partners.

— Bruce Steele