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Tenn. GOP wants to protect clergy from officiating same-sex weddings in case 1st Amendment changes

Tenn. GOP wants to protect clergy from officiating same-sex weddings in case 1st Amendment changes
Tennessee state capitol in Nashville.
Tennessee state capitol in Nashville.

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Members of the House Republican Caucus are considering a special legislative session to address issues following the U.S. Supreme Court ruling upholding same-sex marriage.

Part of the group’s discussion in Nashville Tuesday was a proposal that would protect ministers who choose not to perform a marriage that violates their religious beliefs.

Currently, ministers have a First Amendment right not to marry same-sex couples. But some lawmakers believe protections are needed in case that changes down the road.

House Republican Caucus Chairman Glen Casada of Franklin told reporters after the meeting that a special session “is on the table” to not only protect ministers, but also look at what can a state or states do to stand up to the Supreme Court.

Casada said a special committee will be formed to meet with legislative and state attorneys before moving forward.

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