The state Senate has approved a proposed change to Missouri’s Constitution that would block penalties to religious organizations and businesses that deny services to same-sex marriages.
Senator Bob Onder is the sponsor of SJR 39 (courtesy; Missouri Senate Communications)
Proponents say it protects religious freedom for churches and business owners. Opponents say it allows discrimination against the LGBT community.
That measure now heads to Speaker Todd Richardson’s (R-Poplar Bluff) House.
“Clearly religious liberty is an important issue to many Missourians and ultimately if a resolution passes, Missourians will have the final say on that issue. If we get the resolution we’ll let it work its way through the process as we do with all the things that come from the Senate.”
The proposal prompted a more than a day-and-a-half filibuster in the Senate that Republicans forced to end, and Democrats responded by slowing down business on Thursday – using tactics that could continue in the Senate through the remaining months of session.
The legislation is SJR 39.
Earlier stories: Â
Missouri Senate sends proposed same-sex marriage objectors ballot issue to the House
Missouri Senate Democrats: ‘tensions still high,’ won’t say whether slowdown tactics will continue
