Post by Funky-Fran on Sept 12, 2002 8:31:03 GMT -5
CARSON CITY, NEVADA -- Conservative Nevada politicians pushing a constitutional amendment to ban gay and lesbian marriage in the state are getting a cash transfusion from the The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Nevada's "Protection of Marriage" act would not only bar gay marriage but also prevent gay marriages performed elsewhere from being accepted in the state.
"We are part of that coalition," backing the proposed ban on recognition of single-sex marriage, church spokesman Dale Bills has confirmed.
The church has enlisted its local congregation leaders to encourage members to volunteer and donate privately to the campaigns.
So far it has raised more than $525,000.
The church pumped more than a half million dollars into a similar campaign in Hawaii and over $600,000 into one in Alaska. In both states the campaigns to ban gay marriages were successful. It was also involved in anti-gay campaigns in California.
Amending Nevada's constitution requires approval in two consecutive elections, so the Coalition for the Protection of Marriage is gearing up again for the Nov. 5 election.
Two years ago, with Mormon help, the "Protection of Marriage" amendment passed with 70 percent support.
Nevada's "Protection of Marriage" act would not only bar gay marriage but also prevent gay marriages performed elsewhere from being accepted in the state.
"We are part of that coalition," backing the proposed ban on recognition of single-sex marriage, church spokesman Dale Bills has confirmed.
The church has enlisted its local congregation leaders to encourage members to volunteer and donate privately to the campaigns.
So far it has raised more than $525,000.
The church pumped more than a half million dollars into a similar campaign in Hawaii and over $600,000 into one in Alaska. In both states the campaigns to ban gay marriages were successful. It was also involved in anti-gay campaigns in California.
Amending Nevada's constitution requires approval in two consecutive elections, so the Coalition for the Protection of Marriage is gearing up again for the Nov. 5 election.
Two years ago, with Mormon help, the "Protection of Marriage" amendment passed with 70 percent support.