Voters will decide marriage and gaming proposals November 2

Two statewide ballot proposals will appear on the November 2 general election ballot. Proposal 04-01 would require voter approval of any form of gambling authorized by law after January 1, 2004. The proposal also would require voter approval for any new state lottery games utilizing “table games” or “player operated mechanical or electronic devices” introduced after January 1, 2004.

THE MEASURE would provide that when voter approval is required, both statewide voter approval and voter approval in the city or township where gambling will take place must be obtained. The voter approval requirement would not apply to Indian tribal gaming or gambling in up to three casinos located in the city of Detroit. Voter will be asked if this proposal should be approved. They will need to either punch “yes” or “no” on the ballot.

Supporters believe the people should have the right to vote on major gambling expansions proposed by the State. Opponents say if the proposal is approved it could threaten the Michigan Lottery and the more than $586 million annual contribution it makes to the state school aid fund – that’s enough fu

nding for 70,000 students or 11,000 new teachers.

THE OTHER STATEWIDE proposal asks voters to amend the state constitution so it specifies what can be recognized as a “marriage or similar union” for any purpose. The proposal would amend the state constitution to provide that “the union of one man and one woman in marriage shall be the only agreement recognized as a marriage or similar union for any purpose.” A “yes” vote on Proposal 2 puts into the Michigan constitution what is current state law. Proponents say the amendment does not tell people how they can live their lives.

Opponents counter that the proposal bans legal recognition of any union similar to marriage entered into by same-sex as well as opposite sex couples. The ballot language “for any purpose” has those against the amendment concerned that it would permanently outlaw domestic partner benefits under which workers’ families and children are protected. Voters will be asked to provide a “yes” or “no” decision.

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