Republicans in the state are looking to introduce a raft of anti-LGBTQ laws.
Republicans in Texas are looking to introduce a series of anti-LGBTQ laws next year including allowing businesses to oppose same-sex marriages and another anti-trans bathroom bill.
The Austin-American Statesman reports that Rep. Matt Krause said that the prospect for such laws were good. He cited political changes in Texas, the impending retirement of the moderate House Speaker and ultra-conservative judges being appointed in the state by President Trump.
“We should be able to get something signed, and because of the favourable climate in the judiciary, I think it will be upheld as well,” Krause said.
Another Republican, Lois Kolhorst, who wants to introduce an anti-trans bathroom bill was also optimistic, saying: “The only way that you fail is to not try.”
Related: Texas Republican says gay people are “termites” sent by Russia
As Texas is deeply conservative, LGBTQ rights in the state are not great with same-sex marriage and anti-sodomy laws only being imposed following Supreme Court judgments. The Republican Party in Texas run on a platform that says “homosexuality is a chosen behaviour that is contrary to the fundamental unchanging truths that has been ordained by God.”
Despite public opposition, an anti-trans bathroom bill made it through both houses of legislation last year, before moderate Republicans leaders blocked the ban from being implemented.
However, last year the First United Methodist Church in Austin, Texas refused to hold anymore weddings until it is was allowed to marry same-sex couples.
The church’s senior pastor, Rev. Taylor Fuerst said: “This resolution to create a policy for marriage equality is a tangible act of willing sacrifice.
“Our church is choosing to set aside the privileges of some in order to stand in solidarity with others who can’t get married in our church by our clergy.”
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