May 20, 2004 - Volume 2, Issue 19

Abstinence Bills Headed to Governor’s Desk

Two bills that will reform Michigan’s sex education laws will soon be on their way to Governor Granholm’s desk after a brief return to the Senate. Originally introduced in the Senate as SB 943 and 944, the House today passed SB 943 as well as their own version of SB 944 known as HB 5478.

The bills call for increased parental input and a stronger abstinence message in sex education curriculum. They also put in place a reporting mechanism for schools that violate the sex ed guidelines.

A broad coalition of family policy groups as well as education groups came together to support the legislation. Michigan Family Forum has worked diligently behind the scenes to ensure these bills’ success. The governor’s staff has indicated she will sign them. For more information, or to thank your legislators for their support, click here.

Marriage Package Passes the House

The Michigan House passed a package of seven bills this week designed to strengthen marriage and protect children during divorce. The closest vote came on the bill that requires parents to take a class to learn about the effects of divorce on children before a marriage is legally dissolved.

The bills now move to the Senate. Governor Granholm has said she does not support this current package of legislation. Individuals are encouraged to contact the Governor’s office to express support for Michigan’s "Healthy Marriage Initiative." Click here to contact the Governor. Click here for more information about these bills.

Massachusetts Begins Issuing Same-Sex Marriage Licenses

The state of Massachusetts this week became the first state in the union to begin issuing marriage licenses to same-sex couples. Last-minute attempts to prevent the order from Massachusetts’ Supreme Judicial Court mandating homosexual marriage were unsuccessful. The scramble is on as other states in the union figure out how to respond to America’s first, "legal" gay marriages.

Several national family policy organizations are teaming up for a nationwide simulcast entitled "The Battle for Marriage" this coming Sunday, May 23. Several churches are broadcasting the event. For a list of churches or more information, click here.

The "Protect Marriage Yes" petition drive is now more important than ever. With only five weeks remaining, grassroots support to preserve traditional marriage is essential if the petition drive is to succeed. Every signature is valuable. If you have not already obtained petitions, please contact MFF at (517) 374-1171 or info@michiganfamily.org to request petitions. Click here for more information about the petition drive.

Teen Abstinence Events Right Around the Corner

Michigan Family Forum is hosting two upcoming events for teens interested in learning how to promote abstinence in their schools. The first event, "Leading Edge – a Training Retreat for Peer Educators," will take place June 16-18 on the campus of Michigan State University. Speakers include Miss America Erika Harold, Kyle Warmington, and Mary Jane Pories. There is a nominal charge per teen for this three-day event.

The second event, "Momentum 2004 – Gaining Ground Through Smart Choices" will take place on Friday, June 18, 2004 from 7:00pm to 9:00pm at the Ada Bible Church near Grand Rapids. Featured speakers include Erika Harold and Kyle Warmington, along with musical guests Wayburn Dean and Crisi. The event is free of charge and open to any teen.

For more information about either of these events, contact Dan Jarvis at (517) 374-1171, or email, dan@michiganfamily.org.

President Stresses Compassion, Faith, Value of Life at Commencement Address

President Bush recently delivered the commencement address at Concordia University in Wisconsin. His comments highlighted the value of faith and compassion as well as stressing the value of life. To read the President’s address, 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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