August 12, 2011
Pursuant to Elections Code Section 9005, we have reviewed
a proposed constitutional amendment initiative related to marriage (A.G. File
No. 11‑0017, Amdt. #1-S).
Background
California law defines marriage as a personal
relationship arising out of a civil contract between two consenting adults. In
November 2008, voters passed Proposition 8, which amended the State Constitution
to specify that only marriage between a man and a woman is valid or recognized
in California. However, state law allows couples of the same sex where both
partners are at least 18, or unmarried couples of the opposite sex where at
least one partner is 62 years or older, to register as domestic partners. In
most instances, registered domestic partners are provided the same rights and
benefits as married couples. For example, both married individuals and domestic
partners are entitled to alimony and community property rights.
Constitutional challenges to Proposition 8 are currently
pending in both state and federal courts.
Proposal
This measure amends the Constitution to repeal
Proposition 8. In addition, the measure would replace the term "marriage" with
"civil marriage" in state law. Finally, the measure states that it is not
intended to modify or change any school curriculum or to require clergy of any
church to perform a service not congruent with their faith.
Fiscal Effect
By repealing Proposition 8, this measure would make
marriage between individuals of the same sex valid and recognized in California.
As a result, there would likely be additional spending in the state on wedding
ceremonies by same-sex couples, including spending by people from outside of
California. Particularly in the near term, this could increase revenues to state
and local governments (primarily sales tax revenues). Over the longer run,
however, this measure would likely have little fiscal impact on state and local
governments.
Fiscal Summary. Over the long run, this
measure would likely have little fiscal impact on state and local governments.
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