The Capitol Square Review and Advisory Board (CSRAB) voted Wednesday to have a CSRAB committee review its discriminatory wedding policy. The review came at the request of CSRAB member Rep. Stephen Slesnick (D-Canton) in an effort toaddress CSRAB's denial of renting LGBT couples a public accommodation for weddings and receptions.
Since 2006, the Statehouse has allowed couples to rent the Statehouse and grounds to use for wedding ceremonies and receptions. To do so, couples must provide a valid Ohio marriage license. While the Statehouse rules do not explicitly prohibit same-sex couples from using the facilities, the rules clearly discriminate against a large group of Ohio citizens.
Following the FreedomOhio Executive Director Ian James thanked community leaders for their support, saying:
“In January, FreedomOhio working with State Rep. Michael Stinziano asked theCapitol Square Review and Advisory Board Statehouse to revise its wedding policy as it clearly violates equal access to a public accommodation. Ohioans deserve equal access to the Statehouse which is known as the 'People’s House.'We thank Rep. Stinziano for making the request and for Rep. Slesnik and the Board for moving forward on this matter.”
