When the United States Supreme Court announced that same-sex marriages would be legalized nationwide, an estimated 50 to 60% of Americans were in favor of the decision while only 40% were opposed. Despite the apparent majority supporting the ruling, it did not stop the opposition from voicing their concerns about potential violations to states’ and religious rights.
It appears that what they have said has not fallen on deaf ears, as there may be a dramatic decrease in supporters, according to a recent survey conducted online by the Associated Press (seen here). The poll, which included 1,004 adult participants and lasted from July 9th to July 13th, concluded through extrapolated data results that now only 42% of Americans approve the ruling while the same amount still disapprove.
How Can Approval Drop Without Disapproval Rising?
It would appear that many people who had included themselves previously as supporters of the legalization of same-sex marriage in all 50 states were actually somewhat uncertain in their beliefs. After seeing how strongly some people opposed the ruling, they may have reevaluated their own feelings in regard to the matter and have since chosen to stand in a neutral position.
Due to the fact that the number of people in opposition of the ruling did not dramatically bolster at the time of the survey, it is unlikely that any immediate changes to the law will come into effect. However, most lawmakers and politicians who do not approve of same-sex marriage legalization continue to stand by their opinions. Some House Representatives are even working on a new bill, named the First Amendment Defense Act, which would protect religious institutions from any federal retaliation, should they refuse to provide marriage services to same-sex couples.
Making Sense of All the Changes
At Steven N. Cole, LLC, our Phoenix family law attorneys understand that the controversy and news surrounding the Supreme Court’s decision to legalize same-sex marriage can make it difficult to interpret the truth behind the new laws. We have made it our mission to provide the people of Arizona strong and compassionate legal counsel when they need it, no matter the complexity or severity of their disputes. If you want to be helped by a team with more than 20 years of experience handling divorce and family law issues, contact us today to request your free case evaluation.