Politics & Government

Mendota Heights-Area Legislators Oppose Gay Marriage Ban Amendment

'I don't believe we should write discrimination into the constitution,' said Rep. Rick Hansen.

The Minnesota Senate approved a proposal May 11 that would put a constitutional ban on gay marriage in front of voters in the 2012 election. The measure to define marriage in the constitution as between one man and one woman could be before the state’s House of Representatives any day.

Mendota Heights legislators said they are opposed to the measure.  

Sen. James Metzen (D-District 39) was one of 27 votes against passage in the 38-27 roll call vote.

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Hundreds of protesters opposed to the ballot question gathered in front of the House chambers Monday.

“They were at full force, full force,” said Metzen. “That probably won’t change any of the conservatives’ votes though.”

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If the amendment passes in the House as well, it would not need a signature from Gov. Mark Dayton to proceed as a ballot question.

Rep. Rick Hansen (D-District 39A) said he is opposed to passage of the ballot question as well. “I don’t believe we should write discrimination into the constitution."

“The constituent emails I’m getting are opposing the amendment,” said Hansen, by a ratio of about two-to-one. “There are some in favor, but most of those are saying they want the chance to vote on it.”

“The common theme I’m hearing is ‘Why are you doing things like the marriage amendment or the policy bills when the budget’s not done?’" said Hansen, "And I would have to agree with that. We have to get the budget completed.”

The governor issued a compromise proposal to balance the budget through more limited tax increases on a fourth tier tax bracket this morning.

"I give him a lot of credit. He’s putting stuff out there," said Metzen. "you might not like it, but at least he’s trying." Metzen said the GOP has "dug in its heels."

"You gotta talk. You gotta compromise in this world," said Metzen.

The last day for the Legislature’s regular session is May 23.

“Time is not our friend here,” said Hansen.


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