Gov. Greg Abbott Backs Contentious Anti-Gay Marriage Bill

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AUSTIN (CBSDFW.COM/AP) — Gov. Greg Abbott is publicly getting behind a religious objections bill that is moving fast after the U.S. Supreme Court heard historic arguments over gay marriage.

Abbott tweeted Wednesday that he hopes to receive a Republican-backed measure that would allow clergy members to refuse officiating marriages that violate their beliefs:

Pastors' religious liberty to perform weddings must be protected. I hope to see this bill on my desk. #txlege http://t.co/u37wZ7d0Pc

— Greg Abbott (@GregAbbott_TX) May 6, 2015

This marks the first time Abbott has publicly backed one of a number of proposals that opponents consider anti-gay. The bill was filed in the Senate on the same day last week that the Supreme Court heard the landmark gay marriage case.

The bill, otherwise known as the "Preservation of Sovereignty and Marriage Act," says no state or local funds could be used to "license, register, certify or support" gay marriage. It would also prohibit officials from recognizing, granting or enforcing gay marriage licenses.

Texas has a similar ban that was approved by voters in 2005.

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