In November 2012 voters in Maryland decided whether to legalize same-sex marriage. The Civil Marriage Protection Act makes it possible for same-sex couples to obtain civil marriage licenses in the state of Maryland. Gay and lesbian couples will be able to get married on January 1, 2013.
Answer:
Background on Question 6:
In February 2012 the Maryland legislature approved a bill called the Civil Marriage Protection Act.The Act makes same-sex marriage legal in the state of Maryland and also has provisions that prevent religious organizations or churches from being penalized if they refuse to marry same-sex couples. It was signed into law by Governor Martin O'Malley. A provision in the bill required it to go up to the voters in a referendum. The bill was approved by voters it will go into effect on January 1, 2013 and same-sex couples will be able to marry in the State of Maryland.
Ballot Language
Question 6 in Maryland
Establishes that Maryland’s civil marriage laws allow gay and lesbian couples to obtain a civil marriage license, provided they are not otherwise prohibited from marrying; protects clergy from having to perform any particular marriage ceremony in violation of their religious beliefs; affirms that each religious faith has exclusive control over its own theological doctrine regarding who may marry within that faith; and provides that religious organizations and certain related entities are not required to provide goods, services, or benefits to an individual related to the celebration or promotion of marriage in violation of their religious beliefs.A YES vote supports the law and is a vote FOR gay marriage.
Results for Question 6 in Maryland
QUESTION 6:FOR: 52%
AGAINST: 48%