After months of debate, Lehigh County will now offer health benefits to same sex spouses of county employees.

The board of commissioners voted 6-0 May 28 to grant the benefits.

Abstaining from the vote were Commissioners Scott Ott, Michael Schware and Vic Mazziotti.

Commissioner Geoff Brace, a supporter of same sex benefits, said the affirmative vote now allows the commissioners to tackle other legislative and policy issues.

"I'm glad we set the record straight and we can move forward offering the benefits we should have been providing," he said.

Commissioner Brad Osborne said after consulting with county Solicitor Matthew Sorrentino, it was determined if action was not taken, the county would be susceptible to lawsuits, resulting in monetary loss.

Ott said because county Executive Tom Muller is legally required to follow state law, commissioners should not instruct Muller further.

Ott's reasoning was based on the May 20 federal decision that ruled Pennsylvania's law prohibiting same-sex marriage violated the U.S. Constitution.

"We have no business telling the executive to obey the law," he said. "He already is obligated to obey the law."

Changes to the county benefits plan allowing for same sex benefits will take effect July 1.