Obama administration redefines 'spouse' to include married gay couples

Obama administration has redefined the term 'spouse' to give gay couples the same medical benefits.

The plans, which have been published by The Department of Labor in a new 52-page document, will grant gay couples the Federal right to job-protected leave from their place of work, so they can take care of a sick partner, child or parent under the 1993 Family and Medical Leave act (FMLA).

Under the revision, which will become law on March 27, anyone in a same-sex marriage, regardless of where they currently live, will be eligible for the benefit as long as they were married in a state that allows same-sex marriage.

Obama Administration continues to ensure all legally married couples have access to the same federal rights, protections and privilegis.

A new step for full equality in the U.S.

Tiffany L. Koebel from U.S. Department of Labor explained the change