Message from discussion
Gay Marriage Ban
From: Gregory Gadow <techb...@drizzle.com>
Subject: Gay Marriage Ban
Date: 1997/02/13
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Even though the state Supreme Court has already opinioned that same-sex
marriages cannot be contracted in Washington, the Senate has passed a
bill that would completely ban them. The House also has the votes to
pass it, and both are poised to over-ride Locke's promised veto.
Those favoring the ban have focused on one and only one of the many
reasons why two people would want to be married; and that one reason is
children. Continuously, the statement has been made that the sole
purpose of marriage is to provide a stable environment for the next
generation.
Here is what I propose:
Propose a new law, either by initiative or by legistature, stating that
no more childless marriages may be contracted in Washington state. From
the time that the new law goes into effect, any couple that cannot have
children, either because of age or condition, shall NOT be granted a
marriage license. Marriages made after the law has taken effect must
produce at least one child within a specified time frame (two years?) or
the marriage license (and all legal benefits) would be revoked. After
all children have become adults, the couple would be allowed to remain
married.
Discussion would need to be made regarding children from a previous
marriage and adoption; however, same-sex couples could adopt or have
children before their same-sex marriage, so in the interest of equality,
I would recommend against these exceptions.
On a related issue, perhaps we should ban divorce for any couple having
minor children (I would be willing to make a case-by-case exception when
a spouse or the children are in danger of abuse) This would further
provide 'a stable environment for children', as there are few things
more traumatic for a child than a messy divorce between his parents.
Any discussion?
Gregory Gadow
Seattle, Washington
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