Governor Greg Abbott signed the Pastor Protection Act on June 11.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott signed the "Pastor Protection Act" (Senate Bill 2065) on June 11, allowing clergy to refuse to conduct marriages against their religious beliefs. It also forbids the government from withholding benefits or privileges from clergy, religious organizations, and employees of religious organizations for acting according to their religious beliefs, especially in regards to marriage.
"Freedom of religion is the most sacred of our rights and our freedom to worship is secured by the Constitution," Abbott said. "Religious leaders in the state of Texas must be absolutely secure in the knowledge that religious freedom is beyond the reach of government or coercion by the courts."
With an overwhelming amount of support in the legislature, the bill received a two-thirds vote in both the House and Senate, allowing the bill to take effect immediately.
State Representative Celia Israel (D-Austin), and State Representative Mary Gonzales (D-Clint), two openly gay members of the House, showed their support for the bill as well.
"Texans are ready for equality, and if this measure gives pastors a peace of mind, I welcome it becoming law," Israel said.
Same-sex marriages are currently already illegal in the state of Texas. Many believe that the passing of this bill was preemptive to the Supreme Court decision on same-sex marriages that is to be released by the end of June.
