Source: Public Radio Capitol News, AP via Philadelphia Inquirer
A state Senate committee has passed a proposal to amend the state Constitution to ban gay marriage and civil unions.

The Senate Judiciary Committee today held a lively public hearing on the proposal before approving it, 10-4.

Pennsylvania already has a law prohibiting same-sex marriage -- the Defense of Marriage Act.

Opponents sought more hearings on the bill, saying the wording of the proposal that bans civil unions is so poorly defined that it could endanger the rights that gay and lesbian couples have now.

Supporters say the wording isn't meant to take away current rights, such as a partner's health care coverage or ability to grant power of attorney.

Stacey Sobel, director of Equality Advocates Pennsylvania says a constitutional amendment is a drastic step, and questioned the committee’s decision to hold only one public hearing on the issue.

“Two hours to discuss taking someone’s constitutional rights away is not sufficient. And I say that on a personal note as someone who has a partner of 13 years and has a child. And you are trying to take my rights away as a citizen of this Commonwealth.”

Sobel says if the amendment is adopted, many unmarried Pennsylvanians will be adversely impacted – including elderly couples seeking power of attorney during health crises, and domestic violence victims seeking protection from abuse orders.

Maggie Gallagher, of the national Institute for Marriage and Public Policy, says a constitutional amendment is the only way to keep the courts from overturning that law.

"Any same sex couple can create such a court case by going down and asking for a license. Therefore the only way to ensure that the laws you passed are protected, given that we have evidence that courts around the country are at least entertaining overturning these laws, is putting it in the constitution.”

A constitutional amendment requires approval from both legislative chambers in two consecutive two-year sessions and ultimate approval in a statewide referendum.

Full article: Proposal to ban gay marriage, civil unions advances in Pa. Senate | AP | 03/18/2008
Lawmakers consider gay marriage amendment | Public Radio Capitol News