Gov. McCrory: Defense of Constitution Requires a Veto Of Senate Bill 2 PDF Print E-mail
State Government
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Friday, 29 May 2015 05:26

RALEIGH, (SGRToday.com) - Gov. Pat McCrory says he will veto Senate Bill 2, which would allow magistrates and registers of deeds to opt out of gay marriages when it conflicts with deeply held religious beliefs.

In a statement, the governor said that while he and many North Carolinians believe marriage is between a man and a woman, "we are a nation and a state of laws. Whether it is the president, governor, mayor, a law enforcement officer, or magistrate, no public official who voluntarily swears to support and defend the Constitution and to discharge all duties of their office should be exempt from upholding that oath; therefore, I will veto Senate Bill 2."

The bill passed the House 67 to 43. It has previously passed the Senate.

The bill would allow public officials to opt out of their duties for at least six months to accommodate their religious views. Supporters say it upholds religious freedom. Opponents say it is discrimination.

If  the governor issues the veto, the bill will head back to the legislature for an override vote.

 
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