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HB 6039

Marriage Between Persons of the Same Sex

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Ashley Gantt

Bill would legalize same-sex marriage in Florida by removing the state constitutional ban, aligning state law with federal precedent, but died in committee due to insufficient legislative support.

Died in Civil Justice & Claims Subcommittee
#domesticrelations
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Bill Summary · HB 6039

Legislative bill overview

HB 6039 would legalize marriage between same-sex couples in Florida. The bill directly challenges Florida's current constitutional amendment (passed in 2008) that defines marriage as a union between one man and one woman, which remains in effect despite the 2015 U.S. Supreme Court ruling in Obergefell v. Hodges that legalized same-sex marriage nationwide.

Why is this important

While same-sex marriage is legal nationwide due to federal court precedent, Florida's state constitutional language creates legal ambiguity and symbolic tension. Passing this bill would align Florida's state constitution with federal law and remove discriminatory language from the state's founding document, affecting marriage licensing, benefits recognition, and legal standing for same-sex couples in the state.

Potential points of contention

  • Constitutional amendment process: Changing Florida's constitution typically requires a supermajority vote and/or approval by voters, making passage legislatively difficult regardless of support
  • Ideological divisions: Conservative lawmakers view the existing constitutional definition as reflecting traditional values, while supporters see it as discriminatory language that contradicts federal law
  • Political feasibility: The bill's death in committee suggests insufficient support in the current legislature, reflecting Florida's current political composition and priorities

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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