SJR 29 -- SAME-SEX MARRIAGES

SPONSOR:  Steelman (Engler)

COMMITTEE ACTION:  Voted "do pass" by the Committee on Children
and Families by a vote of 7 to 6.

This proposed constitutional amendment specifies that only
marriages between a man and a woman will be valid and recognized
in the State of Missouri.

FISCAL NOTE:  Estimated Cost on General Revenue Fund of $36,840
in FY 2005, $0 in FY 2006, and $0 in FY 2007.  No impact on Other
State Funds in FY 2005, FY 2006, and FY 2007.

PROPONENTS:  Supporters say that the resolution gives Missouri
citizens the opportunity to express their opinions and values on
how marriage should be defined in Missouri.  It encourages
responsibility and faithful relationships.  Redefining marriage
to include other types of relationships erodes the institution of
marriage.  It is prudent to amend the Missouri Constitution
because of what has happened in other states.

Testifying for the bill were Senator Steelman; Missouri Catholic
Conference; Missouri Family Network; Missouri Baptist Convention;
and Concerned Women of America.

OPPONENTS:  Those who oppose the bill say that the amendment will
limit the rights of Missourians.  The issue is about equal
application of the law to all citizens of the state.

Testifying against the bill were Michael Getty; and PROMO.

Amy Woods, Legislative Analyst

Missouri House of Representatives
92nd General Assembly, 2nd Regular Session
Last Updated September 23, 2004 at 11:17 am