Issue Position: Supporting Progressive Values

Issue Position

I am proud to have supported progressive issues throughout my entire career both in politics and in the nonprofit sector. Though our state has made many strides over the years, we have stepped back in some areas. I am a strong supporter of a women's right to choose and voted against legislation that prevents private insurance companies from offering coverage for abortion without the purchase of a special rider. I have strongly condemned the attacks on organizations that provide health and counseling services to women. In addition, I believe that we need to remove laws that hinder the rights of gays, lesbians, bisexual and transgender individuals. I have never hidden behind "civil unions". I sponsored legislation to repeal Michigan's ban on same-sex marriage because I believe that all people should be afforded the opportunity to marry the person that they love. I also offered an amendment to the state budget to prevent state funds from being used for court costs defending Michigan's unconstitutional and discriminatory anti-marriage law. I have been and will continue to be a voice to protect the rights of underrepresented people across our state.

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