Nebraska's Moot Gay Marriage Ban Could Go to Voters Again

Nebraska's defunct same-sex marriage ban could once again go before voters under a measure that seeks to remove it from the state constitution.

Sen. Burke Harr of Omaha told a legislative committee Wednesday that his proposed amendment would ensure the constitution stays consistent with the U.S. Supreme Court's ruling that allowed same-sex marriage.

Voters approved the state's marriage amendment in 2000, but the court's decision rendered it unenforceable even though it remains in the constitution.

Conservative family values groups opposed the measure, with one calling it needlessly divisive.

Sen. Ernie Chambers of Omaha says he supports the amendment but raised concerns that "bigoted" voters would keep it in place, harming the state's reputation.

Even if voters kept it, the ban would still be unenforceable.

This story is part of our special report: "Gay Marriage". Want to read more? Here's the full list.