Same-sex marriage ban could be on the ballot in 2012

Minnesotans may get to vote next year on whether the state constitution should ban same-sex marriage. Same-sex marriage is already illegal in Minnesota, but Republicans in the state Legislature say only a constitutional amendment will protect the traditional definition of marriage from getting overturned in the courts.

Since Republicans control both the House and Senate, the bill stands a good chance of passing. And in contrast to normal legislation, DFL Governor Mark Dayton wouldn't get an opportunity to veto it. Instead, voters would decide whether to approve the proposed amendment in next year's general election.

MPR's Cathy Wurzer spoke with Jennie Bowser, who tracks these kinds of ballot measures for the National Conference of State Legislatures.

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