MICHIGAN: Same-Sex Marriage Ban Repeal Introduced In State Senate

Yesterday Democrats in the Michigan state Senate introduced a bill to repeal the constitutional ban on same-sex marriage. Republicans hold the majority in both state chambers.

A measure introduced Wednesday would amend the Michigan Constitution to remove a 2004 prohibition on same-sex marriage. The measure needs two-thirds support in the Republican-led House and Senate to make the statewide ballot. Another bill would recognize out-of-state same-sex marriages in Michigan. Democratic Sen. Rebekah Warren of Ann Arbor says polling shows more Michiganians support gay marriage than just a year ago. She says married couples enjoy a host of legal protections, and removing Michigan's ban would ensure gay couples can be legal parents to their adoptive children.

A recent poll shows that 56% of Michigan voters support some form of relationship recognition for same-sex couples.