Congressman Andy Barr (KY-6) issued the following statement:
“My Christian faith teaches me that every human being should be treated with love, dignity and respect. That same religious tradition teaches me that marriage is defined as a union between one man and one woman.”
“The people of Kentucky decided to amend our state Constitution to protect this traditional definition of marriage. Regardless of one's personal views about that decision, I believe it is inappropriate and inconsistent with the constitutionally limited role of the judiciary for the Supreme Court to deprive the people of this Commonwealth -- or of any other State -- the ability to either preserve that decision or change it for themselves through the democratic process.”
“I appreciate that the Court's majority acknowledges that the First Amendment protects religious organizations and persons ‘to teach the principles that are so fulfilling and so central to their lives and faiths.’ However, I remain deeply concerned that this decision could be misinterpreted to compel people of faith and religious leaders to violate the most basic tenents of their faith. Accordingly, Congress should now consider what actions should be taken to prohibit discrimination against people of faith and to protect freedom of conscience.”