As gay and lesbian couples made plans to marry, activists opposed to the California Supreme Court's decision legalizing same-sex marriage said on Friday they would escalate efforts for a constitutional amendment limiting marriage to heterosexuals.

An amendment to the state constitution would override Thursday's decision, which superseded state laws from 1977 and 2000 that defined marriage as a union between a man and woman.

Californians could vote in November on an amendment cementing that definition in the state constitution.

"It's expected that certification for the ballot will occur in early June," said Randy Thomasson, head of Campaign for Children and Families. "The ruling should be stayed in deference to the people who have demanded the right to decide this issue on the ballot."

Thomasson expects a backlash against the court's decision because it is at odds with the traditional definition of marriage, approved by voters in a 2000 statewide referendum.

"People know deep in their hearts it is only for a man and woman," Thomasson said.

Read it all.

Filed under: * Culture-Watch • Law & Legal Issues • Marriage & Family • Sexuality • Civil Unions & Partnerships • * Economics, Politics • Politics in General

1. libraryjim wrote: Question for those in Calif. the Governator said he would not support such an amendment.  Does the Governor have the right to reject a publically voted amendment? Jim E. May 18, 5:03 pm | [comment link]

2. Cennydd wrote: NO, he doesn’t.  And he’s a Roman Catholic, which means he’d likely run afoul of his priest, his bishop, and his archbishop.  I would also bet that he could be threatened with excommunication. May 18, 10:14 pm | [comment link]

Registered members must log in to comment.