This is in response to the letter from Trudy Chasse, “An infringement?” (Oct. 14) regarding same-sex unions in the state of Maine.

The state does not infringe on the power of any church to decide who will, or will not, be married under its roof. It is up to each individual religious institution to decide who has or has not met particular marriage requirements, such as pastoral counseling, for example.

That will not change if voters uphold the state law legalizing same-sex unions. If a church chooses not to marry a same-sex couple, that would be legal.

As a notary public (all notaries in the state are authorized to perform civil marriage ceremonies within the state), I am well aware that a very important document is required for any couple to be married in Maine, in a religious ceremony or otherwise: a marriage license.

Therefore, I do not think the state is on shaky legal ground by using the term “marriage” or “defining the legal rights thereof.”

I am voting “no” on Question 1. I hope to soon be able to marry both same-sex and heterosexual couples in this state.

Michelle Rice, Auburn