Senator Christopher “Kip” Bateman (R-Somerset/Hunterdon/Mercer/Middlesex), a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, today called for same sex marriage to be decided by the voters of New Jersey.
In addressing the Committee during its consideration of S-1, the “Marriage Equality and Religious Exemption Act”, Bateman said that he was willing to work with supporters and opponents alike to craft an unbiased and fair question on the issue in the form of either a Constitutional Amendment or statute enabled by referendum.
“This is an emotionally charged issue on which people of good will can reasonably disagree. It is also an issue that should not be used for any political purposes or posturing.”
“I believe the only way to reach a resolution that reflects the true will of all the people we represent and erases politics from the equation is to place it directly before the voters.”
“The question can take the form of a constitutional amendment, or as a statute triggered by approval by voters through referendum. The language should be negotiated between supporters and opponents so as to not tilt the scales toward one outcome or the other.”
“It is my intention to work with any and all willing parties to advance this solution in the legislature. It is my hope that we, as elected leaders, can put politics aside and allow this highly charged issue to be decided directly by all the people of the state of New Jersey, whom we are sworn to represent.”
Short Link to this Post:
http://bit.ly/A9V9mQ
Recommended Posts:
Similar Posts:
- Bateman Submits Constitutional Amendment Giving Voters the Opportunity to Approve Same Sex Marriage
February 9, 2012 - Cardinale Supports Governor Christie’s Call for Constitutional Amendment
October 25, 2011 - Pennacchio: “Democrats’ ‘Top Legislative Priority’?”
February 13, 2012 - Allen Bill Permitting Marriage by Proxy for Service Members Clears Committee
May 19, 2011 - Cardinale: Gay Marriage Bill Actually Is About “Marriage”
February 13, 2012
