DALLAS — The Texas House has voted overwhelmingly to solidify the state’s ban on same-sex “marriage,” passing a bill designed to amend the state constitution.
The Republican-controlled House voted 101-29 Monday to allow voters in November to decide whether the state constitution should specifically ban same-sex “marriages” and civil unions.
The bill, offered by Rep. Warren Chisum, Pampa Republican, easily reached the two-thirds majority needed to pass. Speaker Tom Craddick, who seldom votes, added the 101st yes vote. Eight members abstained.
“I think [marriage] deserves the highest level of protection,” Mr. Chisum said.
“We as Texans believe marriage is between one man and one woman,” said Rep. Carter Casteel, New Braunfels Republican.
Mr. Chisum said the language was adjusted to strengthen the legislation against a court challenge. Some states are facing litigation against bans on same-sex “marriages.”
“I think it’s something that is going around in different areas,” Mr. Chisum said about legal challenges to marriage resolutions. “We can prevent that by putting this into the constitution, by placing that question in front of the people of the state.”
The House must vote on the bill again before sending it to the state Senate, where two-thirds approval is required for inclusion on the November ballot.
Texas enacted legislation in 2003 that nullifies any “marriage” or civil union between two people of the same sex.
Texas would become the 15th state to add the ban to its constitution. Three other states await a vote on marriage resolutions.
Critics call the measure “window dressing” and say it might conflict with common-law marriage rules.
“I want it clearly understood,” said Rep. Sylvester Turner, Houston Democrat, “that we are not doing any more with this amendment than what exists now in the state of Texas.” He abstained from voting.
Rep. Rafael Anchia, Dallas Democrat, said the measure “confuses our equal rights amendment” that already is part of the state constitution.
After nearly three hours of often-heated debate, the sponsor, Mr. Chisum, attempted to calm tempers. “If I have offended anybody, you have my apologies,” he said. “I love each and every one of you.”
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