In November 2024, voters in Hawaii and California will decide on constitutional amendments related to same-sex marriage, following Nevada's lead from 2020. While California and Nevada will vote on repealing language defining marriage as between one man and one woman, Hawaii's amendment is unique. In 1998, Hawaii passed an amendment allowing the legislature to 'reserve marriage to opposite-sex couples,' but it didn't outright ban same-sex marriage. In 2013, Hawaii legalized same-sex marriage with the Hawaii Marriage Equality Act. Now, a new amendment, introduced as House Bill 2802, aims to repeal the legislature's power to restrict marriage to opposite-sex couples, marked by a House vote of 43-6 on March 5 and a Senate vote of 41-1 on April 9. This amendment marks Hawaii's first certified ballot measure in 2024. Notably, all Senate Democrats and one Republican supported the amendment, reflecting shifting attitudes. The legislature may introduce more amendments before adjourning on May 3. Hawaii's last constitutional amendment vote was in 2016. With evolving views on marriage equality, Hawaii's decision in November could echo nationwide sentiments. #Queer Up The USA View