SAVANNAH, Georgia — Chatham County officials are debating whether they can offer insurance benefits to same-sex partners.

The Savannah Morning News reports county commissioners voted 4-3 on Friday to allow same- or opposite-sex partners of employees to enroll in the county’s health insurance plan.

However, the measure did not get the five votes needed to change a county ordinance. Two commissioners were absent. County attorney Jon Hart said his staff will research what to do next.

County Manager Lee Smith said it was unclear how many employees might file for the benefits. However, the county’s human relations division said the financial effect would be negligible.

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