Minn. Senate approves same-sex marriage ban

The Minnesota State Senate approved on Wednesday a measure that would make a constitutional ban on same-sex marriage part of the constitution for the North Star State.

According to the Associated Press, the Republican-controlled Senate approved the measure by a vote of 38-27. The State House, which is also under GOP control, has yet to vote on the amendment, but is also expected to pass the measure.

All Senate Republicans reportedly voted “yes” on the amendment. State Sen. Leroy Stumpf joined the GOP to vote “yes” on the amendment, according to the AP.

If the Legislature approves the proposed constitutional amendment, it will go before Minnesota voters in 2012. Gov. Mark Dayton (D) has said he opposes the measure, although his signature isn’t necessary to ratify the amendment.

Same-sex marriage is already prohibited in Minnesota by statute, but passage of the amendment would prohibit the Legislature from legalizing same-sex marriage in the future or the state courts from finding a right to same-sex marriage in the state constitution. The measure’s supporters say the proposed constitutional amendment leaves open the possibility for enacting civil unions in Minnesota.

(via towleroad)