MONTGOMERY, Ala. — The Alabama House of Representatives passed a bill after four hours of debate Thursday that would protect judges and ministers from being forced to perform any marriage ceremony that violates their religious beliefs.
“With the recent federal court ruling related to the Sanctity of Marriage Amendment and the confusion that resulted, the need to clarify the duties of probate judges and ministers became increasingly apparent,” the bill’s sponsor Representative Jim Hill (R-Odenville) said. “As a former judge, I would not want to be forced into a situation that violates my fundamental religious and moral beliefs.”
HB56, the “Freedom of Religion in Marriage Protection Act,” would allow any judge, minister, church, or other person authorized to solemnize a wedding to refuse to marry any couple for any reason.
Any person who refused to perform a marriage ceremony would be protected from civil suit under the law.
The bill is part of the “Alabama First” agenda put forth by the Alabama House GOP shortly before the legislative session began this month.
The bill passed overwhelmingly, but 25 Democrats opposed.
During the four hours of debate on the bill, Rep. Patricia Todd, the only openly gay member of the State Legislature, became visibly upset. Rep. Todd said she believed the bill was drafted to be discriminatory, adding it was “hurtful.”
Todd "I question the motivation of this bill. It is hurtful"
— Bethany Davis (@bethanyWSFA) March 12, 2015
Several amendments were proposed—and rejected—by Democratic members before the bill was ultimately approved 69-25.
HB56 will now be sent to the State Senate.
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— Elizabeth BeShears (@LizEBeesh) January 21, 2015
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