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Ban on Gay Marriage Gains Preliminary House Approval

March 31, 2004
By: Missy Shelton
State Capital Bureau

Missouri law already bans gay marraige but some lawmakers say that's not enough.

A recent ruling from the high court in Massachusettes overturned a similar law saying it was unconstitutional.

Springfield Republican Representative Mark Wright says he fears the same thing could happen in Missouri constitution.

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But opponents say the proposed constitutional amendment is discriminatory.

Democratic Representative Melba Curls spoke against the measure.

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But supporters of the proposed ban say it's not anti-gay.

Republican Representative Susan Phillips.

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But during debate, Republican Representative Bryan Stevenson pointed out to his colleague Kevin Wilson that there's nothing wrong with the state discriminating against certain activities.

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Opponents say they don't believe the constitution should be changed in this way.

Democratic Representative Vicki Walker says it would set a precendent.

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Some lawmakers assert the push for legalizing gay marriage is part of a larger gay rights agenda.

But Walker says the issue goes beyond gay rights.

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The measure faces a final vote in the House before moving to the senate for consideration.

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