Can the US Have Both Religious Freedom and Gay Marriage? Louisiana Bill Shows Way Forward
By Napp Nazworth , CP Political Analyst - The Christian Post
A Louisiana bill seeks to balance gay marriage with the religious freedom of those who oppose it.
The "Marriage and Conscience Act," sponsored by Rep. Mike Johnson, R-Bossier City, would prevent the state from punishing people for actions they take regarding marriage due to their religious or moral convictions.
The core section of the law states: "Notwithstanding any other law to the contrary, this state shall not take any adverse action against a person, wholly or partially, on the basis that such person acts in accordance with a religious belief or moral conviction about the institution of marriage."
Even though gay marriage supporters are condemning the law as "anti-gay," it would codify a principle put forth by gay marriage supporters when they initially sought public support for gay marriage. That principle was often stated something like this: "Gay marriage will have no effect on gay marriage opponents. Those opposed to gay marriage will be able to go about their daily lives as they always have."
Since becoming legal in a majority of states, however, that principle has not been upheld. For example, Catholic social service agencies have been forced out of finding homes for orphans because they only place children in homes with a married mother and father. Wedding vendors, such as photographers, florists and cake bakers, have been forced out of business for refusing to use their talents for a same-sex wedding. And in Georgia a government employee was fired due to his belief that true marriage can only be between a man and a woman.
Like what gay marriage supporters originally called for, the Louisiana bill is based upon a principle of "live and let live." While gay couples would continue to be able to get a state marriage license, the legislation would let those opposed to gay marriage live according to their beliefs.
But gay marriage supporters are opposing the bill that seeks to codify the principle they once supported.
Read more at http://www.christianpost.com/news/can-the-us-have-both-religious-freedom-and-gay-marriage-louisiana-bill-shows-way-forward-137509/#wvjTAdGDFkzjUUUx.99My comments: Homosexuality is, before God, Sin, as is Heterosexual Sin and every other Sin. A nation that FORCES people, agaisnt their Conscience, to embrace any Sin is Wrong, and against God. Let those who choose to Sin keep it to themselves. Let them have the "rights" of every other citizen but not the ability to FORCE others to embrace their Sin.
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