Sec. 1. Marriage is inherently a unique relationship between
a man and a woman. As a matter of public policy, this state
has a special interest in encouraging, supporting, and protecting
that unique relationship in order to promote, among other
goals, the stability and welfare of society and its children.
A marriage contracted between individuals of the same sex
is invalid in this state.
(Michigan Compiled Laws Ann. section 551.1)
Marriages solemnized in another state validated;
exclusion of same sex marriages
Sec. 1. (1) Except as otherwise provided in this act, a
marriage contracted between a man and a woman who are residents
of this state and who were, at the time of the marriage,
legally competent to contract marriage according to the
laws of this state, which marriage is solemnized in another
state within the United States by a clergyman, magistrate,
or other person legally authorized to solemnize marriages
within that state, is a valid and binding marriage under
the laws of this state to the same effect and extent as
if solemnized within this state and according to its laws
.
(2) This section does not apply to a marriage contracted
between individuals of the same sex, which marriage is invalid
in this state under section 1 of chapter 83 of the revised
statutes of 1846, being section 551.1 of the Michigan Compiled
Laws.
Union of one man and one woman as only agreement recognized as marriage or similar union
To secure and preserve the benefits of marriage for our society and for future generations of children, the union of one man and one woman in marriage shall be the only agreement recognized as a marriage or similar union for any purpose.
(Michigan Constitution, Article I, Section 25, approved by the electorate on November 2, 2004)
