By Neisha Roberts
The Alabama Baptist
Hundreds of inquirers asked the same question after the Feb. 9 ruling that made same-sex “marriage” legal in the state — “Does this mean I will be required to perform marriage ceremonies for same-sex couples even if it goes against my religious beliefs?”
It was that question, and others like it, that led state Rep. Jim Hill, R-Springville, to sponsor House Bill 56 (HB56), the “Freedom of Religion in Marriage Protection Act.”
At press time the bill was pending a third read by the House of Representatives Committee on Judiciary, after being placed on the legislative calendar March 5.
The bill, according to supporters, was introduced to prevent ministers and probate judges from being forced to perform a marriage ceremony that went against their religion and, after having done so, prevent them from being sued.
According to Eric Johnston, attorney for Alabama Citizens Action Program, HB56 was written to “partially address the issues that same-sex advocates are demanding.”
“We will need further legislation to deal with adoption, inheritance, spousal rights, divorce, child custody, etc.,” Johnston said. “To that extent HB56 is deficient.”
But opponents of the bill say it is an attempt to “legalize discrimination” because the wording includes “no church, synagogue, society or religious organization” can be sued over a refusal to provide accommodations or services “related to the recognition, solemnization or celebration of a marriage,” according to The Montgomery Advertiser.
Refusing services
Opponents believe this will open the door for judges to refuse granting divorces, hospitals to refuse visits from a sick patient’s gay spouse, food banks to turn away people because of their sexual orientation, etc.
But in news reports Hill said, “You’ll see that this (bill) deals with nothing in the world but who is authorized to [solemnize marriage]. It does not speak to any other issue.”
Johnston said when it comes to the discussion of religious freedom “same-sex advocates fail to recognize the meaning of religious freedom and that it entitles us to have our beliefs and not be forced to accept theirs.”
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