TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Kansas Senate President Susan Wagle says the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision on gay marriage will require legislators to examine state laws protecting religious freedom.
The Wichita Republican said Friday that legislators need to make sure that Kansas residents who personally oppose gay marriage are not required to perform same-sex weddings or participate in them.
Lawmakers considered such a measure last year, but it drew strong protests from gay rights advocates and some business leaders and stalled in the Senate.
Supporters of last year’s measure said it would have protected individuals and businesses that oppose gay marriage. But critics said the measure was written so broadly that it would have allowed widespread discrimination against gays and lesbians.
Wagle said she’s disappointed by the U.S. Supreme Court decision.