Maryland Already 8th U.S. State to Legalize Same-Sex Marriage
When Maryland Governor Martin O’Malley signed same-sex marriage into law last March, Maryland became the 8th U.S. state to legalize gay marriage. (The other states are District of Columbia, Massachusetts, Iowa, Vermont, New Hampshire, Connecticut, and New York). It narrowly passed House of Delegates after falling short in that chamber.
Is It o.k. to Put Up the Rights of a Minority to a Popular Vote ?
– Lisa Polyak, Equality Maryland
The law is scheduled to take effect in January 2013 if the popular vote prevails. Maryland ballots will ask the question in the affirmative and there will be an exemption for religious groups. Three other states voting on same-sex marriage are Maine (legalized unions for same-sex couples in 2009, but later that year became the only state to overturn such a law passed by a legislature), Washington, and Minnesota that is voting whether to reaffirm the ban.
Maryland’s History on Same-Sex Marriage
The state’s legislature rejected a similar law in 2011. Maryland currently recognizes same-sex marriage from other states and the District of Columbia. It’s a liberal-leaning state with nearly 1/3 black.voters.
Those Opposed to Same-Sex Marriage
Backed by many churches, the Maryland Marriage Alliance, is leading the effort to overturn the law. At the end of May, it had gathered 113,000 voter signatures to petition. Only 55,736 are required.
Those In Favor
A poll by Public Policy Polling commissioned for Marylanders for Marriage Equality found 57% of Maryland residents would vote to uphold the law legalizing same-sex unions, and 37% would vote against if elections were held today.
This poll showed a 12 point shift from an identical survey done in early March.
Why the Shift?
Did President Obama’s position on gay marriage affect this shift? Did the N.A.A.C.P.’s pro same-sex marriage sway reluctant black voters?
