Lesbian Suze Orman Speaks Against Florida Amendment

Financial expert and best-selling author Suze Orman has come out publicly against Florida's Amendment 2, which if passed by voters next month, would constitutionally ban same-sex marriage and civil unions in the state.Orman -- who is gay and hosts a financial advice show on CNBC -- warned that Amendment 2 would have far-reaching effects for unmarried couples and seniors, as well as gays and lesbians. Pension and health care benefits could be eliminated for these groups should Amendment 2 pass.

"Many seniors choose not to marry again to keep financial benefits such as pensions from earlier marriages," Orman said in a release. "Passage of Amendment 2 could threaten these essential resources that help them stay out of poverty." Amendment 2 needs approval from 60% of Florida's electorate to pass."My life's work has been to help people, particularly women, take responsibility for their own financial security," Ormon said. "This amendment will undermine the ability of people in Florida to protect themselves."