Michigan Moves to Protect Same-Sex Marriage Amid Supreme Court Concerns
In response to fears of potential legal rollbacks on same-sex marriage, the Michigan Marriage Equality PAC announced plans to secure a constitutional amendment safeguarding same-sex marriage rights in the state. If the U.S. Supreme Court were to overturn the landmark 2015 ruling in Obergefell v. Hodges, which legalized same-sex marriage nationwide, Michigan’s 2004 constitutional amendment banning such unions would be reinstated.
Co-founder Sadie Burnaine emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating it is not merely symbolic but crucial for the futures of real families. “Couples who built lives together could be treated as legal strangers if Obergefell is overturned,” she warned. Current statistics reveal nearly 15,000 married same-sex couples in Michigan, all of whom would lose legal recognition, affecting vital rights such as emergency medical decisions, inheritance, and parental rights.
The proposed amendment’s language is currently being finalized, with hopes to have it submitted for state approval this summer. If approved, the group intends to begin gathering approximately 446,000 valid signatures needed by July 2026 to secure a spot on the November ballot. The organization plans to connect with the community through various Pride festivals this summer to raise awareness.
Lawmakers have echoed concerns about the conservative-leaning Supreme Court potentially revisiting rulings on issues like same-sex marriage. Previous efforts to strike down the state’s ban through legislative channels have stalled due to the requirements for constitutional changes. As developments unfold, Michigan Marriage Equality vows to ensure all Michiganders’ right to marry remains protected, aiming for a brighter, more inclusive future.
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