Nevada Senator Tick Segerblom has
introduced a joint resolution calling for repeal of the state's gay
marriage ban.
The resolution seeks to remove from the
Nevada constitution the state's definition of marriage approved by
voters in 2002 which says, “Only a marriage between a male and
female person shall be recognized and given effect in this state.”
The resolution needs the approval of
two separately elected Legislatures, making 2016 the earliest it
could reach the voters. If approved, lawmakers could act to legalize
marriage for gay and lesbian couples in 2017.
The resolution has the backing of
numerous Democrats in both the Senate and the Assembly but no
Republicans.
Also being considered is an amendment
to the resolution which would replace the constitution's marriage
definition with language authorizing marriage for gay couples.
Richard Ziser of Nevada Concerned
Citizens threatened to organize against lawmakers who vote for
repeal.
“They want the recognition and
acceptance of getting married,” Ziser told the Las
Vegas Sun. “That's where the battle lines get drawn. If
they [lawmakers] want to do the heavy lifting for the homosexual
community, they'll have to face voters two years from now.”
Nevada currently recognizes gay couples
with domestic partnerships.
A recent poll by the Retail Association
of Nevada found that a majority (54%) of Nevadans favor repeal, while
43 remain opposed.