Rhode Island House approves same-sex marriage

January 25, 2013

In a 51-19 vote, the Rhode Island House of Representatives has passed legislation altering the legal definition of marriage to permit same-sex marriage.

Calling same-sex marriage an “irrevocable societal game-changer,” Rep. Arthur Corvese, a pro-life Democrat and opponent of the legislation, said, “Truth must not be sacrificed on the altar of political correctness. Is this the vision you want for Rhode Island's future? Is this the future you want for America?”

Father Bernard Healey, executive director of the Rhode Island Catholic Conference, said in a statement:

Today’s vote by the House of Representatives undermines the common good of our state and strikes against the very foundation of our culture. Unfortunately, this bill redefines marriage and fails to protect the religious liberties of many faith communities and individuals of conscience who believe that marriage is a union of one man and one woman. As witnessed in other states, those who support traditional marriage will most likely be punished by costly lawsuits and cultural persecution.

Sadly, the House has denied Rhode Islanders the opportunity to vote on a question of this magnitude by placing it on a referendum, an opportunity many other states have afforded. Given that the United States Supreme Court is expected to issue a decision on this very divisive matter, legislative leaders should focus on initiatives to reduce the state’s high rate of unemployment and poverty by addressing the economic challenges that affect all Rhode Islanders.

The bill faces an uncertain future in the Rhode Island Senate, whose leader opposes legislation to redefine marriage.

 

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Further information:

• RI gay marriage bill faces uncertain future (AP)
• RICC Statement on House Vote to Redefine Marriage (Diocese of Providence)