Some Indiana gay rights advocates are concerned that a proposed constitutional amendment banning gay marriage would cut off domestic partner benefits.
Many public universities in the state offer domestic partner benefits. These give same-sex couples some of the perks married couples are offered, such as health insurance and funeral time off.
The amendment's sponsor -- Republican Senator Brandt Hershman -- says the language would not affect same-sex benefits offered by public and private employers.
But critics say the language is unclear, and the issue has arisen in other states. A Michigan appeals recently ruled that public employers cannot offer health benefits that treat same-sex relationships similar to marriage.
-copyright 2007 Associated Press
