Nov 12, 2009 8:36 am US/Eastern
Church: D.C. Gay Marriage Bill Threatens Programs
WASHINGTON (AP) ―
The Catholic Archdiocese of Washington says it won't continue social service programs it runs for the District if the proposed same-sex marriage law isn't changed.
The bill states religious organizations wouldn't have to perform or make space available for same-sex weddings, but they must obey city laws prohibiting discrimination against gay men and lesbians.
Opponents say the religious liberty exemption is too narrow. The archdiocese says religious organizations and individuals would be "at risk for adhering to the teachings of their faith."
The archdiocese says that among other changes, it would have to extend employee benefits to same-sex married couples, forcing the archdiocese to abandon its city contracts. That could affect tens of thousands of people the church helps with adoption, homelessness and health care.
The Catholic Archdiocese of Washington says it won't continue social service programs it runs for the District if the proposed same-sex marriage law isn't changed.
The bill states religious organizations wouldn't have to perform or make space available for same-sex weddings, but they must obey city laws prohibiting discrimination against gay men and lesbians.
Opponents say the religious liberty exemption is too narrow. The archdiocese says religious organizations and individuals would be "at risk for adhering to the teachings of their faith."
The archdiocese says that among other changes, it would have to extend employee benefits to same-sex married couples, forcing the archdiocese to abandon its city contracts. That could affect tens of thousands of people the church helps with adoption, homelessness and health care.
(© 2010 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.)
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