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07/08/06-07/10/06

Same-sex marriage ban makes Arizona's ballot

Same-sex marriage ban makes Arizona's ballot

Supporters of a proposed constitutional amendment to ban same-sex marriage in Arizona have filed for the November ballot. Organizers of the initiative, called Protect Marriage Arizona, have submitted over 300,000 signatures with the secretary of state's office. The group needs about 184,000 valid names to qualify for the ballot.

Supporters say the goal is to preserve and protect marriage in Arizona as a union between one man and one woman. It would also prohibit any type of legal status for unmarried people similar to marriage, like civil unions.

Arizona Together is a group formed to fight the amendment. Organizers point out that it would not only ban same-sex marriage, which is already illegal in Arizona, but also stop cities like Phoenix and Tucson from offering domestic-partner benefits.

Both sides are prepared for an expensive fight. Recent campaign finance reports show Arizona Together has raised over $500,000 so far, while Protect Marriage Arizona has collected about $375,000.

Even if it qualifies for the November ballot, the initiative could still face a court challenge. Opponents say it violates Arizona's single-subject rule because the proposed amendment deals with two separate issues—marriage and domestic-partner benefits. (Sirius OutQ News)

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