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.