Reactions to DOMA: Acting Director Elaine Kaplan

Statement by Acting Director Elaine Kaplan on the Supreme Court Decision in United States v. Windsor, “Today’s historic decision by the Supreme Court that the Defense of Marriage Act is unconstitutional is a much welcome development in the continuing quest to ensure equal treatment under the law to all Americans. For the federal government as an employer, it will impact benefits for our married gay and lesbian employees, annuitants, and their families. “In the coming days, OPM will be working closely with the Department of Justice and other agencies to provide additional guidance for federal human resources professionals, benefits officers, and our employees and annuitants. While we recognize that our married gay and lesbian employees have already waited too long for this day, we ask for their continued patience as we take the steps necessary to review the Supreme Court’s decision and implement it. As soon as we have updates to share, they will be posted on our website.”