Jessica Byrom brought up some interesting points in her letter Only married couples deserve benefits (SN 11/4). She’s right. We shouldn’t be in “in the business of placing value on relationships.” I have a suggestion to solve the problem, although I suspect it’s not what she had in mind. Just eliminate benefits to anyone except the employee themselves. No partners, legally married or not. No elderly parents. No children. Nothing.

I’m single with no children. Why should I be “punished” for that by receiving less in benefits from my employer? This plan is plain and simple. It’s fair to everyone. It makes no judgment about any relationship. If someone feels strongly enough they can buy private insurance for anyone they please. Problem solved.