California Prop 3: Voters pass Constitutional Right to Marriage amendment to state constitution
Nov 05, 2024
(KRON) -- California voters have weighed in on Proposition 3, the Constitutional Right to Marriage, a measure aimed at amending the California Constitution. This amendment seeks to remove language from the state constitution that defines marriage solely as a union between a man and a woman, fully recognizing the basic right of individuals to marry whom they love, regardless of sex or race.
A "Yes" vote on Prop 3 would update language in the state constitution that the right to marry is fundamental in California, while leaving unchanged who can marry whom. A "No" vote would keep the existing language in the constitution that states only marriage between a man and a woman is valid or recognized in the state.
Supporters of Prop 3, including Equality California, argue that the measure is essential for protecting civil rights for all individuals. They believe that removing discriminatory language from the California Constitution promotes diversity and ensures that Californians' civil rights, including the freedom to marry without regard to race or gender, are clearly upheld.
Opponents, such as Jonathan Keller, president of the California Family Council, argue that Prop 3 is unnecessary since same-sex marriage is already legal in California. They believe that revising the language undermines the institution of marriage, eliminates boundaries, and could potentially normalize child marriage, incest, and polygamy.
The measure would repeal Proposition 8 which was passed by voters in 2008, supporting a statewide ban on LGBTQ+ marriage. That measure was nullified in 2015 when the United States Supreme Court legalized same-sex marriage nationwide.
While Prop 8 is not enforceable today, Prop 3 proponents warn that if the Supreme Court were to overturn its 2015 ruling, Prop 8 could again become enforceable, criminalizing same-sex marriage in California.
As of election night, Prop 3 is projected to pass, although additional vote counts will continue in the coming days.