Michigan high court says gay partners can't get health benefits

The Michigan Supreme Court has ruled that governments and state universities can't offer health insurance to the partners of gay workers.

The court ruled 5-2 Wednesday that Michigan's 2004 ban against gay marriage also blocks domestic-partner policies affecting the partners of gay employees at the University of Michigan and other public-sector employers.The decision affirms a Court of Appeals ruling.

Up to 20 public universities, community colleges, school districts and local governments in Michigan have benefits policies covering at least 375 gay couples. Some of the plans began as far back as the early 1990s.