Per Public Act 96-1513, the State of Illinois now requires employers to provide coverage for civil union partners (same sex and opposite sex) and the dependents of civil union partners effective June 1, 2011. For members who obtain a Civil Union Partnership Certificate in Illinois, the 60-day qualifying change in status enrollment period will begin upon the issuance of the certificate. More information about Civil Union licenses may be obtained at this link from the Madison County Clerk ‘s office.
For employees who have a valid Civil Union Partnership Certificate from another state, beginning June , 2011, there will be a 60-day qualifying change in status enrollment period to add coverage to Civil Union partners and their dependents.
Information and FAQs regarding benefit coverage for these individuals can be found on the CMS Benefits website.
Effective June 1, 2011, the domestic partner dependent category is no longer be available. The removal of this category is a result of the passage of the State’s Civil Union law. Dependents currently enrolled in this category will continue to have coverage as long as they remain eligible and premiums are paid.
