A state lawmaker wants to allow same-sex marriage in Michigan.
Representative Pam Byrnes of Washtenaw County introduced a plan Wednesday to amend the state constitution to allow same-sex marriages, as well as recognize them from other states.
"Same-sex couples should not be denied the joys and responsibilities that come with making a lifetime commitment to each other," Byrnes said. "The Michigan I know is not a place that would deny visitation rights to a dying loved one or access to health care just because of someone's sexual orientation."
In 2004, Michigan voters passed an amendment banning gay marriage.
The amendment introduced today would overturn it.
Currently, 15 states have some level of protection for the rights of same-sex couples.