Same-Sex Weddings Prohibited at Ohio Statehouse

A board has maintained a policy preventing same-sex couples and others without valid Ohio wedding licenses from renting the Ohio Statehouse and its grounds for weddings and receptions.

A spokesman for the Capitol Square Review and Advisory Board, which oversees the Statehouse building and grounds, says a committee reviewed the policy and recommended no changes, which the full board agreed to Thursday.

FreedomOhio, a group supporting same-sex marriage, has said the policy discriminates against gay couples who are prohibited from getting Ohio marriage licenses.

Democratic Rep. Michael Stinziano (sten-ZEE'-ah-noh) of Columbus had wanted the policy reviewed, saying the Statehouse also could benefit financially from changing the policy.

The situation could change if same-sex couples win the right to legally marry in Ohio.

This story is part of our special report: "Gay Marriage". Want to read more? Here's the full list.