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SB 144

Marriage Between Persons of the Same Sex

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Tina Polsky

Florida bill legalizing same-sex marriage died in committee after failing to advance through the state legislature's Judiciary process.

Died in Judiciary
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 144

Legislative bill overview

SB 144 would legalize same-sex marriage in Florida by allowing persons of the same sex to marry with the same legal rights and responsibilities as opposite-sex couples. The bill directly challenges Florida's current constitutional amendment (Amendment 2, passed in 2008) that defines marriage as between one man and one woman.

Why is this important

Despite the U.S. Supreme Court's 2015 Obergefell v. Hodges decision requiring states to recognize same-sex marriage, Florida's constitutional language remains on the books. This bill would formally align state law with federal constitutional requirements and eliminate the legal ambiguity. For LGBTQ+ Floridians, it would provide explicit statutory protection rather than relying solely on federal court precedent.

Potential points of contention

  • Constitutional conflict: The bill would directly contradict Florida's existing constitutional definition of marriage, requiring either legislative reinterpretation or a separate constitutional amendment process
  • Religious liberty concerns: Opponents may argue the bill doesn't adequately protect religious organizations' rights to refuse services or maintain doctrine
  • Political viability: The bill's failure to advance suggests insufficient legislative support in Florida's current political composition, raising questions about passage feasibility regardless of public opinion

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

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