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The California Secretary of State has certified petition signatures
and determined them to be valid, requiring a ballot measure in November
asking citizens to vote on whether to constrict marriage to opposite sex
couples.
California joins
Florida
in having an anti-marriage ballot measure in the fall of 2008.
OutFront Minnesota Hails California Marriage Ruling
The decision on May 15th, 2008 by the
California Supreme Court allowing same-sex couples to marry is a victory
for everyone who cherishes fairness and opportunity.
“Two people in a committed, trusting and loving
relationship deserve the dignity and support that come with marriage,”
said OutFront Minnesota Staff Attorney Phil Duran. The California
Supreme Court’s ruling affirms the fundamental principle of equality
under the law – a principle as old as the nation itself – and recognizes
that government must treat same-sex and different-sex couples equally.
It is a heartening decision that will have a real impact on families.”
California’s decision will not have a direct legal
impact on Minnesota. A 1997 state law bans same-sex marriages.
“This ruling helps lay the foundation for loving
committed couples to have legal protections and provide for their
families,” according to Public Policy Director Monica Meyer. “The court
did its job in ensuring that all families are treated fairly and equally
under the law. It is a model that all fair-minded Minnesotans support.”
While the impact of today’s decision will naturally
be felt most directly in California, it is likely that same-sex couples
from across the country, including Minnesota, will at some point travel
there to marry. However state law does not recognize same-sex marriages
performed outside the state.
“OutFront Minnesota will continue to work to change
hearts and minds on the issue of marriage and other issues that affect
the gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender community,” said Meyer. “We
are continuing to work on changes that will help all of Minnesota’s
families. We believe that every person should have the opportunity to
realize their hopes and dreams by being able to marry the person they
love.” |
