Alabama House Approves Legal Protections For Those Who Refuse To Marry Couples

MONTGOMERY, Ala. (AP) – The Alabama House of Representatives has approved legal protections for judges, ministers and others who refuse to marry gay or other couples.

Representatives approved the bill by a 69-25 vote Thursday.

The bill does not mention same-sex marriage, but says judges, ministers and others don’t have to conduct weddings contrary to their religious beliefs.

Republican Rep. Jim Hill proposed the bill after getting calls from ministers and judges concerned that they would be required to perform ceremonies.

Rep. Patricia Todd, Alabama’s only openly gay lawmaker, says it’s political pandering and changes nothing.

The bill also gives civil immunity to churches, ministers, society and other religious-affiliated groups if they refuse to host or recognize a wedding. Rep. Chris England of Tuscaloosa argued that could lead to a broad discrimination.