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On September 12, 2025, the Idaho Legislature made a controversial decision by passing an amendment to the state constitution that officially bans same-sex marriage. The amendment, known as HJR 45, passed by a slim margin of 51-49 in the state House of Representatives and 26-24 in the state Senate, sparking outrage and protests from LGBTQ+ rights advocates across the state.The amendment, which was proposed by conservative lawmakers in response to a recent Supreme Court ruling legalizing same-sex marriage nationwide, declares that "marriage between one man and one woman is the only lawful union recognized in the state of Idaho." Supporters of the amendment argue that it is necessary to uphold traditional family values and protect religious freedom, while opponents argue that it is a discriminatory and unconstitutional attack on the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals.Governor Sarah Thompson, a staunch conservative and vocal supporter of the amendment, wasted no time in signing it into law, declaring that Idaho will "stand firm in its commitment to traditional marriage and family values." In a statement released after the signing, Governor Thompson praised the legislature for "taking a stand against the erosion of our moral values and protecting the sanctity of marriage."However, LGBTQ+ rights advocates and civil liberties organizations have vowed to challenge the amendment in court, arguing that it violates the Equal Protection Clause of the 14th Amendment and goes against the spirit of love and acceptance that should be at the heart of all marriages. In a joint statement, several advocacy groups announced plans to file a lawsuit challenging the constitutionality of the amendment and advocating for the rights of same-sex couples in Idaho.As the debate over the new amendment rages on, Idaho finds itself at the center of a national conversation about the intersection of religion, politics, and civil rights. With passions running high on both sides of the issue, it is clear that this is a debate that will continue to divide the state for years to come.