Colorado lesbians
drop DP benefits lawsuit

Two lesbian couples have dropped their lawsuit against the city of Colorado Springs, Colo., over its 2003 decision to revoke benefits for same-sex couples. Kaylynn LaGamma said she did not have the energy to go on with the suit after her partner, former city dispatcher Barbara Henson, died in May. A second couple dropped out earlier.

The city council extended health benefits to gay and lesbian partners of city workers in 2002. The following year, a new council rescinded the benefits, and the lawsuit was filed. The couples argued that the city was violating religious freedom and equality rights, while the city said it had no obligation to offer benefits to people who are not considered married under state law.

A judge threw out the suit earlier this year and the case was on appeal when the couples dropped out. LaGamma and the plaintiffs' attorney, Trish Bangert, said they were disappointed with the outcome and the lack of help from gay and lesbian organizations in the state.

Bangert said Referendum 1 on the November 7 statewide ballot would make the lawsuit moot if it is approved. The measure would allow same-sex couples to register as domestic partners and gain the benefits and protections of spouses. (AP)