Kansas Gov Issues Order to Guard Religious Liberty

Kansas Gov. Sam Brownback has issued an order aimed at protecting religious groups opposed to gay marriage.

Brownback said the "imposition" of gay marriage could lead to "potential infringements" of religious liberties.

His order says state agencies can't alter contracts with individuals or religious groups that would change their tax status, deny them licenses or tax breaks based on their refusal to perform same-sex marriages, or provide services for gay weddings.

The state's four Catholic bishops had issued a statement urging state officials to protect same-sex marriage opponents.

"Generations of Americans have taken freedom of conscience for granted," the Catholic bishops said. "We, sadly, do not have that luxury anymore."

Brownback issued his order hours after his administration said it is allowing married gays and lesbians to change their names on their driver's licenses and permitting the health insurance plan for state workers to offer coverage to same-sex spouses.

"We have a duty to govern and to govern in accordance with the Constitution as it has been determined by the Supreme Court decision," Brownback said in a statement. "We also recognize that religious liberty is at the heart of who we are as Kansans and Americans, and should be protected."