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Monday, June 29, 2015

Texas AG: State workers can deny marriage licenses to gay couples

Texas’ Attorney General on Sunday stated that county clerks, judges and justices of peace could deny marriage licenses to same-sex couples for religious reasons, arguing that the Supreme Court did not abolish religious liberty.

Ken Paxton, in his non-binding legal opinion, went on to add that “numerous lawyers” would be made available to defend public officials refusing to grant marriage licenses to same-sex couples, according to the Associated Press.

“This newly minted federal constitutional right to same-sex marriage can and should peaceably coexist with longstanding constitutional and statutory rights, including the rights to free exercise of religion and freedom of speech,” Paxton’s opinion states. Republican Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick later requested to review the document.

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott wrote a memo on Friday stating that “despite the Supreme Court’s rulings, Texans’ fundamental right to religious liberty remains protected,” a move that could have prompted Paxton’s remarks over the weekend.

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11 comments:

Anonymous said...

The Texas folks still have a little 'spine' remaining!

Anonymous said...

The first amendment allows for Freedom of Religion and to adhere to those religious beliefs. I certainly hope this supreme court decision doesn't mean the first amendment rights of people, business's and states are not infringed upon.

Anonymous said...

Texas must have a boat load of money to spend on lawyers. This is going to make a lot of lawyers rich.

Anonymous said...

The President doesn't abide by their rulings, so why should we. Childish I know, but it is true.

Anonymous said...

I can be ordained in five minutes on line. Time for these fags to do the same and marry their own instead of forcing a person of religion to do it.
Why they want priest's and officials? So they can think its on to do this? It's not! They know it. That's why they want to force us to do it. Make them marry themselves.

Anonymous said...

OBAMA = communist just like his father and grandfather where.

Anonymous said...

God bless Texas.

Anonymous said...

12:59 No one is demanding a religious ceremony and this decision does not affect who a church marries. Then are still free to turn down anyone they want. It is about civil marriage.

Anonymous said...

I stand strong with Texas!! About time us straight people get rights too!!

Anonymous said...

12:59 it is not about forcing christians against your religion, it is about equality. When the government gives you or I benefits for being married they cannot denynthose same benefits to others. No burden has been placed on you or your religion.

Anonymous said...

Rick Perry, give 'em hell!!!