See more of the story

THE BATTLE OVER WORDS

The Supreme Court has been asked:

• To decide which titles will appear on the ballot for the marriage and photo ID amendments.

• Whether to strike the photo ID measure from the ballot, to change the ballot question or to leave it as it was written by the Legislature.

MAKEUP OF THE COURT

Four justices were appointed by Republican Gov. Tim Pawlenty and one by Republican Gov. Arne Carlson. Justice Alan Page came to office via election. Justice Helen Meyer is resigning and will not participate in the amendment cases. Her vacancy will be DFL Gov. Mark Dayton's first appointment.

TIMELINE

Secretary of State Mark Ritchie says he needs a decision by Aug. 27 to avoid delays in preparing the general election ballots.

JIM RAGSDALE