NC Gay Marriage Religious Exemption Now Law

A bill allowing court officials to refuse to perform gay marriage duties because of a "sincerely held religious objection" is now law in North Carolina.

The news comes after the state House voted Thursday to override Gov. Pat McCrory's veto of the measure with just over the three-fifths majority needed.

Despite being a suppoter of traditional marriage, the governor noted in his May 28 veto message that "we are a nation and a state of laws."

"No public official who voluntarily swears to support and defend the Constitution and to discharge all duties of their office should be exempt from upholding that oath," he said.

McCrory's decision angered social conservatives, with groups like Concerned Women for America accusing the Republican leader of betraying North Carolina residents and forcing court officials to violate their consciences.

Meanwhile, gay rights activists say legal challenges are coming.  The law is the second of its kind nationwide.  So far, Utah is the only other state to approve a similar exemption.