Fact Check: "At least nine states aim to reverse same-sex marriage ruling."
What We Know
The claim that "at least nine states aim to reverse same-sex marriage ruling" is substantiated by recent legislative actions in various states. According to NBC News, lawmakers in at least nine states have introduced measures that seek to undermine the right to same-sex marriage established by the Supreme Court's 2015 ruling in Obergefell v. Hodges. These measures include resolutions urging the Supreme Court to overturn the ruling, with specific examples from states such as Idaho, Montana, North Dakota, and South Dakota, where explicit attempts to reverse the decision have been made.
In addition to these explicit measures, lawmakers in other states, including Missouri, Oklahoma, Tennessee, and Texas, have introduced bills that, while not directly referencing Obergefell, propose creating a category of "covenant marriage" that would restrict marriage to one man and one woman, further indicating a trend toward limiting marriage rights for same-sex couples (NBC News).
Analysis
The evidence supporting the claim is robust, as multiple credible sources confirm that legislative efforts are underway in several states to challenge the Obergefell decision. The actions taken by lawmakers reflect a broader political climate where same-sex marriage rights are being scrutinized and challenged, particularly in conservative states. The Movement Advancement Project, an LGBTQ think tank, has noted that while these legislative measures are being proposed, they face significant obstacles, including public support for same-sex marriage and the legal framework established by the Respect for Marriage Act.
The reliability of the sources cited is high. NBC News is a well-established news organization known for its journalistic integrity, and the Movement Advancement Project is a respected organization focused on LGBTQ rights. Both provide a balanced view of the current legislative landscape and the potential implications of these measures.
However, it is important to note that while these legislative efforts are significant, they are still in the proposal stage and may face legal challenges if they advance. The public's support for same-sex marriage remains strong, which could influence the success of these measures (NBC News, Movement Advancement Project).
Conclusion
The claim that "at least nine states aim to reverse same-sex marriage ruling" is True. Legislative measures have indeed been introduced in multiple states seeking to challenge the Obergefell v. Hodges decision. While these efforts reflect a concerted push by certain lawmakers, they are countered by widespread public support for marriage equality and existing federal protections.
