May 6, 2004 - Volume 2, Issue 17

Marriage Strengthening Package Moves to Full House

A package of bills that will strengthen and promote marriage was voted out of committee today and reported to the full House. Originally introduced by Rep. Joanne Voorhees (R-Wyoming), these bills will reform marriage and divorce laws and help protect children from the harmful effects of divorce.

"Michigan Family Forum is proud to be one of the key sponsors of this package of legislation," said Executive Director Brad Snavely. "These bills make sense for Michigan’s children and families. Our laws should affirm and strengthen the institution of marriage."

Seven of the eight bills originally introduced will now be debated before the full House. One bill is being held back for further discussion. For more information, click here.

"Protect Marriage Yes" Update

Signatures continue to roll in from Michigan citizens committed to preserving the definition of traditional marriage. Coalition members report that signatures continue to arrive daily as they press toward the goal of 450,000 signatures by July 1.

Additional help is always needed and appreciated. For information on how you can become involved in this vital effort, click here. Contact Michigan Family Forum at (517) 374-1171, info@michiganfamily.org if you have questions or need petitions. For an up to date list of "marriage protection" legislation being considered across the nation, click here.

National Day of Prayer Rally Draws Hundreds to Lansing

A large gathering of individuals from across the state gathered at the Capitol in Lansing today for the state National Day of Prayer observance. Several legislators and other individuals spoke and led the attendees in prayer for the nation, state and its leaders.

Observances took place across the state and nation. To view highlights of the national observance, click here. To view a statement from President Bush about the National Day of Prayer, click here.

"Cable Choice" on the Horizon

A Georgia legislator has introduced legislation that would allow consumers to choose their own cable packages. Currently, many consumers are forced to subscribe to channels they may find objectionable in order to receive "basic" cable service. Allowing consumers to choose channels could also lower cable subscription rates.

A broad group of organizations representing a wide array of viewpoints are endorsing the legislation. For more information, click here. To view highlights of a recent poll on this issue, click here.

Divorce Rates Higher for Gay "Unions"

Homosexual "unions" have been legal in Scandinavian countries for several years. A recent study of gay marriages performed in Sweden indicates that the divorce rate among gay couples is much higher than that of heterosexual couples.

While the number of homosexual unions performed in Sweden is small – only one-half of one percent of all unions – the rate of divorce is three times that of heterosexual couples. For more information, click here.

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Forum Online

1003 N. Washington, P.O. Box 15216

Lansing, MI, 48901-5216

Phone: (517) 374-1171, Fax: (517) 374-6112

www.michiganfamily.org

Executive Director: Brad Snavely

Editor: Jon Stanton

Graphic Design: Beth Hafer

Questions? E-mail us: info@michiganfamily.org

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