VA: GOP Aims to Extend Marriage Restrictions

[Southpaw Bookworm]

-- Republicans in the Virginia General Assembly are preparing resolutions requesting an amendment to the state Constitution that would define marriage as a union between a man and a woman, mirroring efforts by states across the nation to further restrict same-sex marriages.

Virginia is already one of 43 states that ban the recognition of same-sex marriages. But proponents of the resolutions say that a constitutional amendment is necessary to protect existing state law from court challenges. They add that Virginia should join the 11 states that passed such amendments on Election Day. The victories have energized social conservatives across the country and are credited by some with helping President Bush win reelection in November.

"The people should be the ultimate authority on issues like this," said Del. Robert G. Marshall (R-Prince William), the sponsor of one of the several constitutional amendment resolutions that will be submitted. A constitutional amendment also "takes it out of the hands of the courts," he said, and "ensures that activist judges can't usurp" state law.

Opponents of the measure in Virginia said a constitutional amendment is unnecessary, particularly after the passage last year of a bill that vastly limits the ability of two people of the same sex to enter into contracts with one other.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A64225-2005Jan10.html

[complain jane]

1. Two people of same sex limited re: CONTRACTS with each other now?

These people seriously need a giant foot in the ass.

[Southpaw Bookworm]

2. Specifically

I believe they were trying to prevent gays from being able to obtain a mortgage together, although it probably also effects joint adoptions, living wills, and the like.

[tjwmason]

5. Joint mortgage ban?

What if two platonic male platonic friends wanted to buy a property together to get more equity?

I can understand why some people wish to restrict marriage, but it is getting utterly idiotic when they start dismantling the freedom to enter into contracts.

[Southpaw Bookworm]

6. Then they're f**ked

Which was one of the points made when this law was passed, I believe. Northern Virginia has a huuuuge problem with affordable housing, and these dumbfucks ruined one option for buying a home.

[complain jane]

3. Article quotes clown saying bill's designed to strengthen hetero marriage

How come that always goes unchallenged? Why doesn't our ass-kissing, paid-shill propaganda WH mouthpiece of a media ever fucking actually ASK someone to explain exactly how legislation like this strengthens hetero marriage?

[noamnety]

4. This statement should also be challenged

"The people should be the ultimate authority on issues like this"

If they believe the people should be allowed to chose, then let the people decide who they want to marry. What they are doing is taking the choice away from the people, and putting it in the hands of a few legislators.

Also, does anyone have an email contact for the supporters of this? After the miscarry-go-to-jail law was withdrawn, I'm feeling empowered.

[Southpaw Bookworm]

7. Marshall's info

Capitol Office
General Assembly Building
P.O. Box 406
Richmond, Virginia 23218
Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Constituent Viewpoint: (800)-889-0229
Email: [e-mail]
Room Number: 704
Legislative Assistant: Claire Gardner
Secretary During Session: Emily Rueger

District Office
P.O. Box 421
Manassas, VA 20108
Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]