Local Lawmakers Say Gay Marriage Ban a Distraction

Southwest Minneapolis lawmakers condemned a Republican plan to introduce a constitutional amendment to ban same-sex marriage at a time when the state is facing massive economic troubles.

The plan, which was unveiled Tuesday, is authored by Maple Grove Republican Sen. Warren Limmer. Two other Republicans also offered similar proposals. It would put the issue of a constitutional amendment banning gay marriage in front of voters in the 2012 election, despite the fact that gay marriage is already outlawed in state statute. Limmer said his proposal ensures the public can decide the issue, rather than "activist judges."

Southwest Minneapolis lawmakers condemned the proposals.

“It’s disturbing that Republicans want to use one of the last weeks of the legislative session to marginalize one group of people and divide our state,” said state Sen. Scott Dibble Tuesday. “We are facing a $5 billion budget shortfall, yet Republicans believe the biggest threat to our state’s welfare is who is allowed to be married.” 

Dibble said Minnesotans marry for economic security, as well as to strengthen their families.

“Minnesotans who are married legally have access to at least 515 laws that provide security, legal protections, and basic rights such as the ability to care for each other," Dibble said, referring to a study by advocacy group Project 515 (see PDF). "As lawmakers, we should be focused on breaking these barriers that still exist for thousands of Minnesotans barriers, rather than further isolating one group of people and wasting taxpayers’ time with unfounded fears.” 

With only a month left in the session, House Minority Leader Paul Thissen slammed Limmer, who heads up the Judiciary and Public Safety Conference Committee, for delaying.

"Instead of focusing on gay marriage, Sen. Limmer should get to work on the Public Safety budget that he’s responsible for," Thissen said in a statement. "Incredibly, it has been 26 days since the bill passed off of the House floor, yet the conference committee has not yet convened."