Relating to authorizing a marriage between two persons of the same sex in this state and repealing the statutory prohibition against the recognition of a civil union or similar relationship entered into in another state between two persons of the same sex.
Impact
If enacted, SB98 would significantly impact Texas's Family Code by amending definitions around marriage to specifically include same-sex couples, alongside heterosexual couples. The proposed changes would provide legal recognition to marriages between two men or two women, and repeal any existing statutes that prevent recognition of same-sex unions from other states. This would enhance legal protections and rights for same-sex couples in Texas, significantly advancing the state's legal framework around marriage equality.
Summary
Senate Bill 98 (SB98) is a legislative proposal aimed at authorizing marriages between two persons of the same sex within the state of Texas. The bill seeks to amend the existing Family Code to eliminate any prohibitions against same-sex marriages, thereby granting equal marriage rights to all couples, regardless of gender. This legislation comes in the context of ongoing national discussions about marriage equality and aims to ensure that same-sex marriages are recognized legally in Texas, aligning state law with broader civil rights objectives.
Contention
The proposal to legalize same-sex marriage has historically faced notable opposition in Texas, particularly from conservative groups and individuals who argue that marriage should be defined strictly as a union between one man and one woman. Proponents, however, advocate for equality and civil rights, stating that the legal recognition of marriages should extend to all individuals, and that legislation like SB98 is a critical step toward equal treatment under the law. The discussions around SB98 reflect a broader cultural shift toward acceptance of diverse relationship structures and highlight ongoing tensions regarding marriage rights in conservative states.
Enabling for
Proposing a constitutional amendment to repeal the constitutional provision providing that marriage in this state consists only of the union of one man and one woman and prohibiting this state or a political subdivision of this state from creating or recognizing any legal status identical or similar to marriage.
TX HB130
Identical
Relating to authorizing a marriage between two persons of the same sex in this state and repealing the statutory prohibition against the recognition of a civil union or similar relationship entered into in another state between two persons of the same sex.
Relating to certain statutory changes to reflect and address same-sex marriages and parenting relationships and to the removal of provisions regarding the criminality or unacceptability of homosexual conduct.
Relating to certain statutory changes to reflect and address same-sex marriages and parenting relationships and to the removal of provisions regarding the criminality or unacceptability of homosexual conduct.
Relating to the confidentiality of certain information on a marriage license, an application for a marriage license, and a declaration of informal marriage.
Proposing a constitutional amendment to repeal the constitutional provision providing that marriage in this state consists only of the union of one man and one woman and prohibiting this state or a political subdivision of this state from creating or recognizing any legal status identical or similar to marriage.
Proposing a constitutional amendment to repeal the constitutional provision providing that marriage in this state consists only of the union of one man and one woman and prohibiting this state or a political subdivision of this state from creating or recognizing any legal status identical or similar to marriage.
Relating to prohibitions on the illegal entry into or illegal presence in this state by a person who is an alien, the enforcement of those prohibitions, and authorizing under certain circumstances the removal of persons who violate certain of those prohibitions; creating criminal offenses.
Relating to the licensing in this state of a person licensed in another jurisdiction to practice marriage and family therapy or professional counseling.
Relating to the repeal of statutes regarding the criminality or unacceptability of homosexual conduct and to the recognition of certain same-sex relationship statuses.