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Maine Poised for 2nd Public Vote on Gay Marriage

Gay rights activists in Maine, the only New England state that doesn't allow gay marriage or civil unions, moved on Jan. 26 toward forcing a second statewide vote on the marriage question, and their opponents say they'll be ready for a fight. EqualityMaine, the American Civil Liberties Union, the Maine Women's Lobby and their supporters said Mainers have had a change of heart since the last vote in 2009. They turned over dozens of cartons of petitions signed by 105,000 voters, far more than the 57,277 needed to force a referendum in November. The petitions must be certified by election officials. After the Legislature approved gay marriage three years ago, opponents forced the question before voters, who overturned the law 53 percent to 47 percent. If Mainers approve gay marriage this time around, the state would be the first to do so by a popular vote. Click here to read more.
 
 



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