Marriage gets a boost in Michigan

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Supporters of traditional marriage in Michigan yesterday turned in some 475,000 signatures -- far more than the 317,000 needed -- to put a state constitutional amendment before the voters in November.

The measure, which defines marriage as the union of one man and one woman, is intended to block efforts to legalize same-sex "marriage" in the state.

"The people responded," Marlene Elwell, president of Citizens for the Protection of Marriage, said yesterday. "They're tired of politicians and activist judges making changes without having a voice. This gives them a voice."

The Board of State Canvassers' office in Lansing was kept open yesterday to receive the signatures. About 200 campaign volunteers helped deliver the boxes of petitions.

Some volunteers worked over the Independence Day holiday to gather signatures. Others, like Becky Fettig, county coordinator for Emmit County in northern Michigan, turned theirs in late last week.

"We were hoping to get at least 400,000 signatures as a cushion," Mrs. Fettig said yesterday. Getting more than 475,000 "is great news," she said.

Opponents of the marriage amendment said yesterday they would work to keep it off the ballot.

The amendment would end domestic-partner benefits in places such as the city of Ann Arbor, the University of Michigan and Michigan State University, said Wendy Howell, spokeswoman for the Coalition for a Fair Michigan.

The text of the proposed amendment says: "To secure and preserve the benefits of marriage for our society and for future generations of children, the union of one man and one woman in marriage shall be the only agreement recognized as marriage or similar union for any purpose."

Michigan's achievement marks a four-for-four victory for those who want marriage amendments on the November ballot.