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Richard Piatt ReportingThe majority of Utah lawmakers are unmoved by the Massachusetts decision that upholds the right of gays to marry. In fact, the state's own definition of marriage continues a successful journey through the Legislature.
A formal definition of marriage as between a man and a woman looks like it's going all the way to the Governor. And according to a recent poll, the bill is taking the track most Utahns want it to.
We met three women at the Capitol who were there to oppose the Definition of Marriage bill. This time yesterday they were celebrating the Massachusetts Supreme Court ruling.
Chris Johnson: "It is ironic. I mean Massachusetts is taking further and further steps ahead for rights for everyone. And Utah continues to bury their heads."
Lorie Hutchison: "We deserve equal rights. We need to voice our opinion."
But Utah's decision-makers overwhelmingly disagree. In fact, Chris Buttars, the bill's sponsor says the ruling from the East has helped him.
Sen. Chris Buttars, (R) West Jordan: "Intensify my desire to make sure this marriage policy is in place as soon as possible."
A Survey USA poll of 500 Utahns for KSL shows most people in the state agree. 75 percent say the state should not allow same-sex marriages. But should the state go as far as a Constitutional Amendment to define a man-woman marriage? 73 percent say yes, the state should change the state Constitution.
That seems to go to concerns some have about how Judges are taking on Legislatures.
Gayle Ruzicka, Utah Eagle Forum: "We now live in a time when the judiciary is taking more power unto themselves and they are in fact legislating."
But there are still plenty of people who take exception to the majority opinion, and more are starting to speak out.
Emily Dewey: "I'd just like to say that I'm a heterosexual, I'm a Christian, and what you're about to do is wrong."
The bill will now go to the full House, where it is expected to pass. The Governor, also has indicated she supports the majority's definition of marriage.
