Before it could go on the ballot, a resolution would have to be approved by the Legislature elected this month as well as the one elected in 2012. The public vote would then take place in the 2014 general election.

If the next Legislature doesn't approve such a resolution, the process would be pushed back another two years.

Earlier this week, House Speaker-elect Kraig Paulsen, R-Hiawatha, told The Associated Press the House will debate the issue "sooner rather than later.'' Paulsen predicted a measure would pass overwhelmingly in a chamber that will be dominated by Republicans.

Bob Vander Plaats, a Republican activist who led the campaign to oust the justices, challenged Democrats on the issue as they head into leadership elections on Sunday.

"The will of the people has fallen on deaf ears for too long, and they want to see leadership on a constitutional marriage amendment,'' said Vander Plaats.

He urged Democrats to consider the issue when picking new leaders in an election Sunday.

"The people have spoken and I would offer some helpful advice to Senate Democrats to listen to the people when electing their new leader,'' said Vander Plaats.