Televised hearings set on anti gay marriage ballot question language

The state will hold public hearings on the language to be used for the ballot question that seeks to outlaw gay marriage.

Secretary of State Dean Heller said the Northern Nevada hearing will begin at 6 p.m. Thursday on Cable Access Channel 13 in Reno.

"The public's input is always appreciated, and this case is no exception," Heller said.

The Southern Nevada hearing will be broadcast live beginning at 9 a.m. Monday in Las Vegas.

For the Northern Nevada hearing, Heller said members of the public are invited to submit questions or comments in advance. They can do so via e-mail at service@govmail.state.nv.us or by faxing the questions to 684-5718.

Heller said live phone calls will also be taken during the program at 954-0911.

The "protection of marriage" ballot question would amend the Nevada constitution so that only a marriage between a man and a woman could be legally recognized. It is designed to prevent recognition of gay marriage.