WASHINGTON -- Opponents of same-sex marriage have formally requested a referendum to block the District of Columbia from recognizing gay marriages.

The D.C. Council voted earlier this month to recognize same-sex marriages performed in other jurisdictions. Congress has until July to review the council measure, and if it takes no action the legislation becomes law.

The group Stand 4 Marriage D.C. filed paperwork with the D.C. Board of Elections and Ethics on Wednesday. The group says it wants to begin collecting signatures.

If approved, the referendum could be put to voters in a special election this year or next or in next year's council and mayoral elections.