SALT LAKE CITY (ABC 4 News) - One of Utah's most influential politicians is butting heads with Utah Governor Jon Huntsman. State Attorney General Mark Shurtleff is speaking out against the Governor's recent stance on civil unions.
He's disputing the Governor's claim that Utah's constitution leaves wiggle room when it comes to the state ban on gay marriage and what that means for civil unions. Shurtleff said if you look at Utah's constitution it clearly prohibits civil unions.
According to the Governor at his monthly press conference he said the issue is unclear and courts may need to decide whether or not Utah's state ban on gay marriage also applies to civil unions.
Shurtleff said a legal challenge like that has no merit. He said the amendment banning gay marriage specifically said no other domestic unions may be recognized. Shurtleff also added the people of Utah have already spoken on this issue. He said that was part of the intent of the ban in the first place.
