An initiative petition which would amend Michigan's constitution to forbid discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity has been approved by the Board of State Canvassers, MLive reports:
The proposal would guarantee full protection under the law and extend non-discrimination protections to gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender residents. Women's rights, already outlined in the state's Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act, would also be enshrined in the Michigan Constitution.
“Fair Michigan wants to ensure that all of Michigan, including women, are constitutionally protected from discrimination on the job, in the housing market or while dealing with their government,” attorney Steven Liedel told the board.
Organizers will need to collect at least 315,654 valid signatures by July 11 in order to qualify for the ballot, a process that is expected to start next month.
Good luck!
Here is the full text of the petition:
The proposal would amend article I, section 2 of the state constitution as follows:
No person shall be denied the equal protection of the laws; nor shall any person be denied the enjoyment of his OR HER civil or political rights or be discriminated against in the exercise thereof because of religion, race, color, GENDER, GENDER IDENTITY, SEX, SEXUAL ORIENTATION, or national origin. The legislature shall implement this section by appropriate legislation. WHEN USED IN THIS CONSTITUTION OR OTHER STATE LAWS PROHIBITING DISCRIMINATION BASED UPON SEX, RACE, AND OTHER FACTORS, “GENDER” AND “SEX” SHALL BE CONSTRUED TO INCLUDE GENDER IDENTITY AND SEXUAL ORIENTATION.
Provisions of existing constitution altered or abrogated by the proposal if adopted:
Article I, Section 2
No person shall be denied the equal protection of the laws; nor shall any person be denied the enjoyment of his civil or political rights or be discriminated against in the exercise thereof because of religion, race, color or national origin. The legislature shall implement this section by appropriate legislation.
Article I, Section 25
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 a marriage or similar union for any purpose.
Article X, Section 1
The disabilities of coverture as to property are abolished. The real and personal estate of every woman acquired before marriage and all real and personal property to which she may afterwards become entitled shall be and remain the estate and property of such woman, and shall not be liable for the debts, obligations or engagements of her husband, and may be dealt with and disposed of by her as if she were unmarried. Dower may be relinquished or conveyed as provided by law.
