MINNESOTA: Marriage Ban Advances

Today a Minnesota House panel narrowly voted 13-12 to send a constitutional ban on same-sex marriage to the full chamber. The vote was hotly denounced by Democrats.

“The founding fathers warned against tyranny of majority,” said Rep. Kathy Brynaert, DFL-Mankato. “Don’t do this.” Rep. Kate Knuth, DFL-New Brighton, said. “Why take away rights in our constitution? Why tear the people of our state apart?” She added, “It makes me physically ill to think of the division we’ll see.” Rep. Carolyn Laine, DFL-Columbia Heights, said, “Clearly this isn’t about the sanctity of marriage; it’s about discrimination.” As the roll call was being taken, several protesters shouted “Shame!” and “You are damaging my life and my family!” One was dragged from the committee room. According to OutFront Minnesota, five Republicans would need to vote with the DFL to defeat the amendment in the House. Along with Rep. Tim Kelly who voted against the amendment in the committee, Rep. John Kriesel, R-Cottage Grove, has said he will vote against it on the House floor.

Last week the state Senate approved the measure. If the bill passes in the House, it will appear on the 2012 ballot. Recent polling indicates that a majority of Minnesotans oppose the ban.