HJR 4: CA:Reconcile same sex marriage law; right to interracial marriage
The proposed constitutional amendment aims to reconcile state law with federal law regarding same-sex marriage and interracial marriage. It seeks to define marriage as a union between one man and one woman, while also protecting the right to interracial marriage. The amendment would be submitted to voters in the 2026 general election for approval. If adopted, it would take effect immediately, repealing the current definition of marriage and making existing same-sex marriages valid in the state.
| Jun. 04, 2025 | Referred to committee: Judiciary |
| Jun. 03, 2025 | Introduced |
As Introduced
136th General Assembly
Regular Session
H. J. R. No. 4
2025-2026
Representatives Synenberg, Somani
Cosponsors: Representatives Jarrells, Piccolantonio, Cockley, Russo, Sigrist, Rader, Brennan, Glassburn, Sweeney, Brent, Robinson, Brewer, Isaacsohn, Humphrey, Mohamed, Lawson-Rowe, Lett, Upchurch, Thomas, C., Denson, Baker, Brownlee, Sims, Hall, D., White, E., Rogers, Grim, Miller, J., McNally, Tims
A J OINT RESOLUTION
Proposing to amend Section 11 of Article XV of the Constitution of the State of Ohio to reconcile Ohio law with federal law regarding same sex marriage and to recognize the right to interracial marriage.
Be it resolved by the General Assembly of the State of Ohio, three-fifths of the members elected to each house concurring herein, that there shall be submitted to the electors of the state, in the manner prescribed by law at the general election to be held on November 3, 2026, a proposal to amend Section 11 of Article XV of the Constitution of the State of Ohio to read as follows:
Section 11. (A) Only a union between one man and one woman two individuals may be a marriage valid in or recognized by this state and its political subdivisions. This state and its political subdivisions shall not create or recognize a legal status for relationships of unmarried individuals that intends to approximate the design, qualities, significance or effect of marriage.
(B) This state and its political subdivisions shall not prohibit marriage between individuals of different races.
If adopted by a majority of the electors voting on this proposal, the amendment of Section 11 of Article XV of the Constitution of the State of Ohio takes effect immediately, and existing Section 11 of Article XV of the Constitution of the State of Ohio is repealed from such effective date.