Group suing over Minnesota marriage ballot title

Published 11:45 am Monday, July 9, 2012

ST. PAUL — Proponents of a constitutional amendment defining marriage in Minnesota say they’re suing two state officials for changing the title of the question that will appear on the November ballot.

The pro-amendment group, Minnesota for Marriage, says it has filed a petition with the Minnesota Supreme Court because Secretary of State Mark Ritchie and Attorney General Lori Swanson “unlawfully” changed the title of the amendment that voters will consider.

Last week, the Democratic secretary announced his intent to substitute the original title of the amendment from “recognition of marriage solely between one man and one woman,” to “limiting the status of marriage to opposite sex couples.” Swanson approved the change.

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Republicans who back the amendment want wording that focuses on the traditional definition of marriage.