The burden of political sensitivity now rests on the shoulders of Gov. Bob Taft, who must decide whether to sign the bill declaring same-sex marriages against the state’s public policy.
State Rep. Mary Taylor, R-Green, said the intent of the Defense of Marriage act is to enforce the laws already in place in the Ohio Constitution.
“It clearly says a legal marriage in Ohio is between a man and a woman. We are not changing the current legal law: we are just reinforcing it,” Taylor said.
The repercussions of the legislation will prohibit same-sex marriage partners employed by the state from acquiring state benefits, such as adequate health care coverage, sufficient pension plans and secured retirement funds.
Brett Beemyn, coordinator of the Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgendered Student Services at Ohio State, said he is displeased by the Defense of Marriage Act and attributes the core of homophobia and anti-gay indifference to the pressures that conservative fundamentalists have implanted into society.
“I am disappointed, but not surprised because of our current political climate – especially after President Bush’s reference to same-sex marriages during the State of the Union address,” Beemyn said. “This definitely demonstrates progress needs to be made, since they are denying people the same rights as heterosexuals.”
Although the legislation will presumably provoke a level of retention and biased sentiment among men and women in the gay community, other state employees not living in civil union with their domestic partner will also be affected and exempt from obtaining state provided benefits.
Many OSU students vocalized their dissatisfaction with the legislation by calling the statehouse to say that the bill would only impart a crutch upon the legal system, which has traditionally prided itself on the acquisition of equal rights.
Matt Monta, a sophomore in political science, said he is disheartened by the restrictions imposed on individuals involved in a same-sex marriage. He has directed his concerns toward ensuring that OSU will remain capable of employing the caliber of professors needed to achieve a future of academic excellence.
Monta said he is concerned qualified professors and administrators may not apply to OSU because their household situations are not the favorable circumstances warranted by the state.
“We could lose out on excellent teachers if we can not provide sufficient benefits. As students, we see this as trying to keep out talented people and outstanding individuals that could positively enhance our communities and our academic institutions,” Monta said.
Larry Lewellen, the vice president of human resources, said the university also is disappointed with the bill’s refusal to acknowledge same-sex marriages and contends OSU will continue to review the legislation for any negative, preemptive impacts.
“There is no conclusion yet on these matters, and we remain hopeful that the impact on our university community will be minimal,” Lewellen said.
