The House passing HJR 6 is one step in a multifaceted process to amend the constitution. Before being adopted to the Indiana Constitution, HJR 6 must still pass in the Senate. In addition, it must be voted on by the next General Assembly in either 2013 or 2014. If it passes both houses, then a voter referendum will be called, allowing the public to vote on whether or not they want to adopt HJR 6 into the Indiana Constitution. Currently, state law defines marriage as between a female and a male, and also establishes that a marriage between persons of the same gender is void in Indiana even if the marriage is lawful in another state. The resolution also states that the legal status pertaining to a civil union similar to that of marriage for unmarried individuals will not be recognized. "I support traditional family values. Marriage is a covenant taken between a man and a woman," said Rep. Frye. "This amendment protects the fundamental sanctity of the institution of marriage." Currently, 30 states have constitutional marriage amendments. If adopted into the constitution, the amendment would prevent radical judges interpreting the law. An example of this was seen in Iowa, where in 2009 the state Supreme Court overturned state law prohibiting same-sex marriage. "There is no denying this is a very emotional issue," said Rep. Randy Frye. "Marriage is one of the most important institutions within our society and should be treated with the reverence and respect it calls for," Rep. Randy Frye reiterated. |
