LANSING, Mich. (AP) — Michigan Attorney General Bill Schuette says his office has filed a lawsuit to block the extension of state-paid health insurance to domestic partners or other unrelated adults living with some state employees.
The suit announced Friday challenges a decision from the Michigan Civil Service Commission to allow the benefits. They are scheduled to begin Oct. 1 for some state employees, including those represented by the United Auto Workers and the Service Employees International Union.
Schuette says the commission's action exceeds its constitutional authority.
The Republican-led Legislature tried to overturn the decision to extend benefits but couldn't get the required two-thirds majority vote needed in the House.
Critics say the benefits would cost the state at least $8 million next year.
The commission did not immediately return a message seeking comment Friday.
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