Title
Adoption of Resolution Supporting Proposition 3, the Right to Marry, and Repeal Proposition 8 Amendment on the November 5, 2024 Ballot. (City Manager)
Body
To: Honorable Mayor and Members of the City Council
From: Jennifer Ott, City Manager
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Proposition 3, a State Constitutional Amendment, would remove outdated language in the California Constitution that says marriage may only be between a man and a woman, and is on the November 5 Ballot for voters across the state to consider. The City of Alameda's (City) adopted 2023-2024 Legislative Agenda supports legislation that promotes social equity and enhances the quality of life and health of Alameda residents. City support for Proposition 3 is consistent with the principles adopted in the Legislative Agenda.
Staff is asking City Council for direction on whether to adopt a resolution of support for Proposition 3 on behalf of the City. City Councilmembers may also support the measure individually in their role as elected officials.
BACKGROUND
The City adopts a two-year Legislative Agenda that serves as a guide for advocacy efforts. By adopting a Legislative Agenda, City staff and the Mayor and City Council are able to react quickly to most legislative issues as they arise. On May 2, 2023, the City Council approved the 2023-2024 Legislative Agenda (Exhibit 1). The City of Alameda's adopted 2023-2024 Legislative Agenda supports legislation that promotes social equity and enhances the quality of life and health of Alameda residents.
In 2008, the passage of Proposition 8 added a section to the state Constitution defining marriage as between one man and one woman. While this narrowly passed with 52% of the statewide vote, 62% of Alameda County voters opposed the measure.
In 2013, the US Supreme Court ruled that Proposition 8 was unconstitutional, and same-sex marriages resumed in California. In 2015, the US Supreme Court ruled that the 14th Amendment requires all states to license same-sex ...
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