Lawmakers in both chambers pushed into law a bill that effectively allows magistrates to refuse to marry same-sex couples.
Photo: Lawmakers who opposed the anti-gay discriminatory bill
Late this morning the North Carolina House voted to override Governor Pat McCrory’s veto of legislation that allows magistrates to refuse to marry same-sex couples based on their claim of a sincerely held religious belief. Lawmakers during debate of SB2 were exceptionally clear that this bill was designed to “protect” magistrates, who, like county clerks in other states, are charged with giving out marriage licenses and marrying couples in civil ceremonies.
The North Carolina Senate voted for the bill in February, and the House passed it in May. Very quickly, Republican Governor Pat McCrory, citing the U.S. Constitution, vetoed the bill.
In a 32-16 vote, the Senate on June 1 overrode Gov. McCrory’s veto, and this morning the House did also, in a 69-41vote.
The bill, when it becomes effective, requires magistrates to opt out of officiating all marriage ceremonies, to avoid the appearance of anti-gay discrimination.
“Senate Bill 2 is unconstitutional, and will undoubtedly be challenged in court,” Rev. Jasmine Beach-Ferrara, executive director of the Campaign for Southern Equality, said in a statement. “This bill, which will now become law, is discriminatory and treats gay and lesbian couples as second class citizens. We are more determined than ever to achieve full equality for LGBT people in North Carolina and to ensure that LGBT youth know that they are not alone.”
Some responses via Twitter:
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Image by Jonah Hermann via Twitter
Hat tip: Washington Blade
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