http://66.225.205.104/MR20120502.mp3
The proposed constitutional amendment appearing on North Carolina's primary ballot next week has been referred to by a variety of names. Most common are "Same-sex Marriage Amendment" and "Amendment One." But neither name is official.
Call it what you will, there is one - and only one - proposed amendment to North Carolina's constitution on the May 8 ballot. And, State Board of Elections Deputy Director Johnnie McLean says the proper way to describe that amendment is simply, 'Constitutional Amendment.'
"That is what is contained in the legislation that placed the question on the ballot," says McLean, "and that is what the ballot reflects." The ballot also contains the specific language of the amendment that says, in part, "Marriage between one man and one woman is the only domestic legal union that shall be valid or recognized in this State."
McLean says she's been unable to identify the origin of the "Amendment One" moniker that has cropped up in many news reports and other locations. The official amendment wording and an explanation of the ballot measure from the Constitutional Amendments Publication Commission can be found on the State Board of Elections website. Early voting for the May 8 primary continues through 1:00 p.m. Saturday (May 5).