Sen. Ortmann Votes 'No' But MN Gay Marriage Bill Passes Committee

The Minnesota Senate Judiciary Committee approved Senate File 925, a bill extending marriage rights to same-sex couples, on a party-line 5-3 vote Tuesday afternoon.

Voting against the bill was Sen. Julianne Ortmann, a Republican whose district includes Shakopee neighbors Chaska and Chanhassen.

A highlight of the debate was extended back-and-forth between opponent Sen. Warren Limmer (R-Maple Grove) and .

Sen. Dan Hall (R-Burnsville) spoke against the bill, saying he was a nice guy—not a "bigot" as some have called him—but, he said, he has an opinion.

Sen. Ron Latz, a DFLer who represents Hopkins, St. Louis Park and Plymouth, chairs the committee.

Also voting in favor were DFLers Richard Cohen of St. Paul, Kathy Sheran of Mankato, and Kari Dziedzic of Minneapolis.

Later in the day, the House Civil Law Committee passed a version of the law in a 10-7 vote.

Now that the committees have given their approval, the measure can go before all Minnesota legislators. However, it's unknown when legislators will vote.

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To watch video of the Senate committee's discussion and vote on the bill, click on the  video at the top of this post or watch it at the UpTake's Livestream webpage.

Related from the Minnesota House of Representatives, March 12, 2013:

• VIDEO: Ex-Plymouth Legislator: 'I Blew My Vote' on Gay Marriage