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Because Freedom Can't Protect Itself.

Wow! What a day! At 12:30 today, Governor Baldacci signed L.D. 1020, "An Act to End Discrimination in Civil Marriage and Affirm Religious Freedom."

In a statement released today, the Governor said, "I have come to believe that this is a question of fairness and of equal protection under the law, and that a civil union is not equal to civil marriage."

We couldn't agree more. Thank you Governor Baldacci for doing the right thing. And thanks to each of you who have done your part to pass this important legislation.

Thanks for all that you do!!!

Alysia, Brianna, Edward, Katy, Marian, Shenna, Zach

Read on for the answers to some of the questions that we've received today, and for a list of media links.

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Where can I find a notary? And other answers...

Here're the details:

The bill goes into effect 90 days after the Legislature adjourns. Adjournment is scheduled for June 17 ... but that can change.

Opponents have said they will mount a People's Veto campaign to overturn the law. If they do, they have 90 days after adjournment of the Legislature to collect enough signatures to put it on the ballot.

Depending on when the Secretary of State receives the signatures and approves them, the question could be on the ballot as soon as this November 2009 - or during a later election.

If the opponents don't collect enough signatures and present them to the Secretary of State in 90 days, weddings could start on day 91 (notice I said weddings - we're talkin' gay weddings right here in Maine!)

But before you set a date - know that we still have work to do. It's time to talk to our friends, family, and neighbors about what marriage equality means to you, and why me must uphold this law.

Yes, it truly is a good day to be in Maine - a day that equality and fairness have won - because it is the right thing to do!

Here's some of the media from today...

Portland Press Herald

Kennebec Journal

Maine Public Broadcasting Network

National Public Radio

MSNBC

CNN

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