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Bill Would Protect Ability to Refuse to Perform Same-Sex Weddings in Ohio

People demonstrate in favore of same-sex marriage in 2013. (ideastream file photo by Brian Bull)
People demonstrate in favore of same-sex marriage in 2013.

A new bill is being introduced at the Ohio Statehouse that would allow officiants to refuse to perform weddings for same sex-couples. Statehouse correspondent Jo Ingles explains.

Republican State Rep. Ron Maag is the sponsor of a bill that would allow ministers and clergy members to refuse to perform marriage ceremonies that oppose their religious beliefs.

But right now, that wouldn't happen anyway since gay marriage is not legal in Ohio. Back in 2004, Ohio voters passed a constitutional amendment banning same sex unions.

The U.S. Supreme Court will be hearing arguments soon that might overturn an appellate court decision upholding gay marriage bans in Ohio and other states.

And that's why Maag is asking his fellow representatives to sign on to the legislation.