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Texas Supreme Court Allows Judges to Refuse Same-Sex Weddings

10/29/2025

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Summary

Story summary

The Texas Supreme Court amended the Texas Code of Judicial Conduct to allow judges to refuse same-sex wedding officiations on religious grounds.
The change followed a lawsuit by Jack County Judge Brian Umphress seeking to avoid penalties for officiating opposite-sex weddings.
Critics say the decision bypassed public debate and raises equal-protection concerns.
Waco Justice of the Peace Dianne Hensley was sanctioned for refusing to marry same-sex couples.

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Story summary

The Texas Supreme Court amended the Texas Code of Judicial Conduct to allow judges to refuse same-sex wedding officiations on religious grounds.
The change followed a lawsuit by Jack County Judge Brian Umphress seeking to avoid penalties for officiating opposite-sex weddings.
Critics say the decision bypassed public debate and raises equal-protection concerns.
Waco Justice of the Peace Dianne Hensley was sanctioned for refusing to marry same-sex couples.