Iowa Senate leader rules out gay marriage debate

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DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) -- As the Legislature prepares to convene next week, a key leader Wednesday ruled out any debate over an Iowa Supreme Court decision legalizing gay marriage.

Senate Majority Leader Michael Gronstal, D-Council Bluffs, said the session beginning Monday will be focused on the state's budget problems and job creation.

"I think our attitude is, if it doesn't help balance the budget, if it doesn't help create jobs, it can wait until another year," Gronstal said.

Legislative leaders already have agreed to cut off pay to lawmakers after 80 days to save money.

If he holds to it, Gronstal's decision delays the cumbersome process of amending the constitution, which requires the approval of two consecutive General Assemblies before going to voters. If lawmakers don't approve this year, the issue would have to be approved by lawmakers convening in 2011 and those convening in the assembly beginning in 2013.

The earliest the issue could reach voters would be the 2014 general election.

The Iowa Supreme Court ruled unanimously last year that a law banning gay marriage violated the state constitution. The ruling legalized same-sex marriage in Iowa and has been a top issue of social and religious conservatives who want the Legislature to begin putting a repeal before voters.

The issue is certain to play into this year's legislative elections, and both supporters and critics of same-sex marriage plan events beginning Sunday to make their case as the session opens.

http://www.siouxcityjournal.com/news/state-and-regional/iowa/article_d0e88944-fb1a-11de-98c8-001cc4c03286.html