Wisconsin's domestic partner registry for same-sex couples is facing a legal challenge.
A lawsuit filed by Wisconsin Family Action claims the registry violates a Constitutional ban on gay marriage, which was approved by voters in 2006.
The group is being represented by the Alliance Defense Fund in the lawsuit. Attorney Brian Raum says the domestic partnership law challenges the will of Wisconsin voters, who passed a clear Constitutional amendment defining marriage and preventing any similar legal status.
Supporters of the registry say it does not violate the ban because it only provides a handful of the rights that a marriage would. Raum says even if the "bundle of rights" is not exactly the same as those granted by marriage, they still believe it's unconstitutional.
The lawsuit has been filed directly with the state Supreme Court, which Raum hopes will result in quick action. However, it's not expected to prevent same sex couples from being able to register domestic partnerships starting on August 3rd.
