US: Indiana committee to hear arguments around bill to ban gay couples from marrying
Those for and against same-sex marriage will today give evidence in the US state of Indiana, for a bill which would ban marriage for gay couples.
The Indiana House Elections and Apportionment Committee will hear arguments from both sides of the debate today starting at 3.30pm local time.
The committee will decide whether the bill HJR3, will go before the full House.
The bill represents a potentially bitter fight over whether or not same-sex marriage should be allowed in the state.
Democratic leaders in both chambers, have asked several times to no avail for the legislation to not be tabled, given how divisive it may prove. Republican leaders have said that they want the measure to have a chance, however.
If the measure is approved this year, it would clear a second and final stage, before being considered by voters this November.
The Indiana Senate in March 2011 approved the constitutional amendment banning gay marriages and civil unions by 40 votes to 10.The public gallery had to be cleared after gay rights protesters shouted at politicians.
A month prior, the Republican controlled House of Representatives approved the measure with a vote of 70 to 26.
Those on both sides of the fight over equal marriage in the state are gearing up for the battle over the legislation.
