Louisiana Amendment Goes Well Beyond Banning Gay Marriage Justices Told

[JI7]

<New Orleans, Louisiana) An anti-gay marriage amendment to the Louisiana Constitution approved by nearly four of five voters threatens to undercut the property and contract rights of both non-married heterosexuals and gays, the Louisiana Supreme Court was told Wednesday.

The high court heard arguments on a judge's decision in October striking down the amendment on the grounds that it violated another provision of the state constitution — the requirement than an amendment only cover one object.

In his ruling, State District Judge William Morvant of Baton Rouge saying the proposition also prevents the state from recognizing any legal status for common-law relationships, domestic partnerships and civil unions between both gay and heterosexual couples.

But an attorney for backers of the "Defense of Marriage" amendment argued an amendment can have various components — as long as they are aimed at one goal.

"The defense of marriage is not only its name, but it's sole purpose," said lawyer Michael Johnson.>

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