by Mandy Stussman ’14

The following questions will appear on the Maryland ballot, aside from the elections. The questions are called referendums, a direct majority vote in which the entire voting public are asked to either accept or reject a particular piece of legislation or law.

Quesiton 4

The Development, Relief and Education for Alien Minors (DREAM) Act allows illegal immigrants to pay in-state or in-county tuition at Maryland colleges. However, in order to qualify, students are required to have attended a Maryland high school for three years, and prove that their parents or themselves filed taxes.

65% Agree to 35% Disagree

“Illegal immigrants with an education will have a better chance of obtaining citizenship and lifting themselves out of poverty.”

– Devin Ganey ’13

“The Dream Act will only encourage more immigrants to illegally come to the United States, at the expense of taxpayers.”

-Drew Metrey ‘14

Question 6

The Civil Marriage Protection Act would allow gay and lesbian couples to obtain a civil marriage license. The law also protects clergy from having to perform any particular marriage ceremony in violation of their religious beliefs, and affirms that each religious faith has exclusive control over its own theological doctrine regarding who may marry within that faith.

87% Agree to 13% Disagree

“I believe that anyone, regardless of religion or sexuality, has the right to both the legal and emotional contract of marriage.”

– Cameron Graf ‘13

“Love is love. If it is against your beliefs, don’t do it, but why should others be able to decide who can spend their lives together?”

– Lauren Corlett ‘13

Question 7

The Gaming Expansion Act would allow one additional casino to be constructed in Prince George’s County and would expand the type of games allowed at existing casinos. The money raised is intended to create jobs and contribute to education funding.

70% Agree to 30% Disagree

“Flowing money is good for the economy. If people waste their money there, that’s their own fault. Jobs and education are good.”

– Nick Cameron ‘14

“They are already sending other ancillary taxes to Baltimore. There is no point in the public spending their money on gambling.”

– Dani Cohen ‘14