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Duke Officials Assessing Implications of DOMA Decision

Duke was one of first employers to make benefits available to same-sex partners in 1994

Duke officials said Thursday that they are assessing the implications of the U.S. Supreme Court's historic ruling on the Defense of Marriage Act for Duke benefit plans.

"As one of the largest private employers in North Carolina, Duke supports and seeks inclusiveness and diversity, one of our core institutional values," said Kyle Cavanaugh, vice president for administration. "The Supreme Court's decision to overturn DOMA is a huge step toward furthering equality for same-sex couples in our community."

Cavanaugh said Duke was one of the first employers to make benefits available to same-sex partners in 1994.

"We are proud to continue offering these benefits and stand in support of same-sex couples," he said.

DOMA is a federal law that has defined "marriage" since 1996 as between one man and one woman for purposes of interpreting any other federal law or Internal Revenue Code provisions governing employee benefit plans.

Cavanaugh said Duke will provide additional information as the implications are clarified.