Texas Marriage Amendment Moves to Voters
The Texas Senate approved a constitutional ban on same-sex marriage on Saturday, moving the measure to a statewide referendum.
The Texas Senate approved a constitutional ban on same-sex marriage last Saturday, moving the measure for decision by state voters later this year.
Similar to legislation under debate nationwide, the bill defines marriage as a union between one man and one woman, prohibiting recognition of same-sex marriage grants from other states.
Although state law already prohibits same-sex marriage under the 2003 Defense of Marriage Act, supporters of the bill say that a constitutional amendment is needed to protect the law against future court challenges and activist judges.
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Saturday’s debate revealed the emotional and controversial nature of the issue. Opponents called the measure an attempt to write discrimination into the state constitution, likening it to past prejudices against blacks, Hispanics, women, and Jews.
Legislators opposing the ban argued that the measure could restrict the ability of same-sex couples to adopt children and reduce domestic partner benefits offered by employers.
Senator Todd Staples (R-Palestine), the amendment’s sponsor, responded saying that the measure was meant to protect marriage, and would not affect the rights or benefits of same-sex couples.
The Senate passed the bill by a 21 to 8 margin after The House approved of it last month. State-voters will decide on the bill in early November.
