An influential conservative group has set its sights on Procter & Gamble Co. for P&G's decision to make benefits available to domestic partners of its U.S. employees starting in 2002.

        In a letter last week to its members, the American Family Association urged members to write to P&G chairman John Pepper and protest the decision.

        “These health benefit plans have traditionally been reserved for the spouses and families of employees,” AFA president Donald Wildmon said. He called it “a slap in the face of true families.”

        The AFA listed dozens of P&G products on its release but stopped short of calling for a boycott. The group has received attention for calling a boycott of Walt Disney Co.

        P&G spokeswoman Linda Ulrey said the Cincinnati-based company had heard from consumers on both sides of the issue and did not plan to alter the policy.

        Have a tip about a Tristate company that should be included in our Buzz? Call 768-8147 or e-mail business@enquirer.com.

Housing market now favors buyers
Attacks shook all business sectors
GE's Welch exudes charm
Chiquita reports third-quarter loss
Duramed merger with Barr finalized
Business Digest
Morning Memo
Tristate Summary
What's the Buzz?