Tomorrow is Election day. It is important to understand the implications of ballot initiatives, especially if you live in Virginia. Depending on what jurisdiction in Virginia, you might have to vote in addition to choosing your Representative, and Senator, but also will have to vote for a number of ballot initiatives.
Ballot question number 1: The Marshall-Newman Marriage Amendment. Apparently, a few members of Virginia House of Delegates -- cares more about putting the wedge issue on the ballot than solving Virginia's transportation problems!
Here's what it says -- by way of email from Delegate Adam Ebbin (D-VA).
“[O]nly a union between one man and one woman may be a marriage valid in or recognized by this commonwealth and its political subdivisions.
This Commonwealth and its political subdivision shall not create or recognize a legal status for relationships of unmarried individuals that intends to approximate the design, qualities, significance, or effect of marriage.
That means ALL unmarried individuals – be they gay or straight – would become second-class citizens. Property rights, wills, advanced medical directives, child custody agreements, hospital visitation rights, health insurance benefits ... everything that is part of “the design, qualities, significance, or effect of marriage” would be threatened for “unmarried individuals.”
It is not so much about defining a marriage between a man and a woman, but it is more about what follows after the opening paragraph. It challenges the validity of any contracts between non-spousal, for example in case of buying a home, contracts between sisters, parents and children etc.
Not only that, but the amendment is also bad for business! Via Hampton Roads Business.
Virginians will vote on the proposed constitutional amendment that defines marriage as a “union between one man and one woman” and prohibits counties, cities and towns from recognizing any legal status or union similar to marriage. The legislation, many argue, will not only affect same-sex partners but could lead to unnecessary lawsuits for unmarried heterosexuals and for businesses that offer domestic partner benefits to employees.
So, vote "NO" to Virginia proposed constitutional marriage amendment (Ballot Question Number 1).
