Conn. group wants same-sex exemptions

HARTFORD, Conn., April 22 (UPI) -- The Roman Catholic Church is heading a coalition in Connecticut arguing for religious exemptions for those who oppose same-sex marriage.

The exemption would cover local officials and also business owners and professionals such as therapists, The Hartford Courant reported Tuesday. For example, opponents of same-sex marriage argue that photographers who agree with them should not be forced to work for gay couples.

John Droney, a lawyer advising the Knights of Columbus, called freedom of religion a "fundamental right." Gay rights group argue that those who offer services to the public do not have a right to discriminate.

"The United States constitution absolutely protects religious liberties and no one can force any religious organization to recognize any marriage they don't want to recognize," said Chris Edelson, state organizer for the Human Rights Campaign.

The state Supreme Court ruled that banning same-sex marriage violates the Connecticut Constitution.