How did state ballot measures affect same-sex marriage laws in Maine, Maryland, and Washington?

On November 6, 2012, Maine, Maryland, and Washington became the first U.S. states to legalize same-sex marriage through popular vote.12

The impact of ballot measures in these states unfolded as follows:

• Maine: The state legislature had previously legalized same-sex marriage in 2009, but voters repealed that law later that same year. In 2012, voters reversed that decision by approving a new ballot measure, effectively legalizing same-sex marriage.2
• Maryland: After the state legislature passed a bill allowing same-sex marriage in early 2012, opponents challenged the law, making its implementation contingent on a referendum. Voters ultimately affirmed the law in the November election.2
• Washington: Similar to Maryland, the state legislature passed a bill in early 2012 that was subsequently challenged. Voters approved Referendum 74 in November, upholding the law and allowing the state to begin issuing marriage licenses to same-sex couples in December 2012.12

These results marked a historic turning point, as it was the first time marriage for gay and lesbian couples had been approved at the ballot box.12