Sep. 15--Three central Ohio companies have been recognized for policies and benefits that are deemed friendly to gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender workers.

Abercrombie & Fitch, Cardinal Health and Nationwide all received the highest possible score of 100 on the annual Corporate Equality Index produced by Human Rights Campaign Foundation, a Washington-based lobbying group. All three also achieved the highest rating last year.

The group invites more than 1,500 companies a year to submit information addressing benefits and policies. Its surveys include questions on partner health benefits, diversity training covering sexual orientation, and policies prohibiting discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity.

A number of other area companies also received high ratings.

Limited Brands, the Columbus-based parent of chains including Victoria's Secret and Bath & Body Works, received a score of 95, up from last year's 80. The Columbus law firm Vorys, Sater, Seymour & Pease scored an 80 for the second year in a row, while Columbus-based Huntington Bancshares again scored a 75.

A total of 590 large companies across the U.S. were rated. Of those, 305 achieved the score of 100.

The Human Rights Campaign Foundation said the number of companies with scores of 100 jumped by 20 percent, "despite the serious economic downturn."

mrose@dispatch.com

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