What Benjamin Burwell doesn't realize is that the so-called "Marriage Protection Amendment" in Florida has nothing to do with gay marriage. In Florida, same-sex marriage is already banned by two state laws and a state court decision.
In fact, the amendment has nothing to do with marriage. Instead, it would squash domestic partner benefits for couples - both gay and straight. Benefits denied would include health insurance, medical visitation and decision-making rights, inheritance rights and many tax benefits.
However, it is no surprise that the amendment's sponsors have framed it as a gay-marriage issue. Since a majority of voters oppose gay marriage, conservative politicians bring up the issue in order to win support for their election, party or amendment. The Florida Marriage Protection Amendment seeks to undermine parity in benefits to gay and straight unmarried couples who need them. So even if you are against gay marriage, please do not support this amendment.
