Written by Don Byrd
The Texas Senate this week passed a controversial bill on a 21-10 vote. SB 2065 states that no minister, religious organization, or employee of a religious organization is required to “solemnize any marriage or provide services, accommodations, facilities, goods, or privileges for a purpose related to the solemnization, formation, or celebration of any marriage if the action would cause the organization or individual to violate a sincerely held religious belief.”
Supporters argue the bill merely protects clergy from having to officiate marriages they find objectionable. Advocates on both sides of the issue agree on that basic principle, which most everyone seems to agree is also fully protected by the First Amendment. Opponents to the measure make the case that the bill will have additional consequences.
The Dallas Morning-News reports:
Critics also said the bills to let clergy and churches opt out of performing or hosting same-sex weddings are too vague. They warned the bills’ wording is so broad that religiously affiliated hospitals and nursing homes could refuse to serve same-sex couples or bar one partner from carrying out the other’s wishes for end-of-life care.
The bill now moves to the State House, which is expected to take up the bill soon. Stay tuned.
