The Tennessee Natural Marriage Defense Act (HB1412) would force Tennessee to defy the U.S. Supreme Court's Obergefell ruling that brought marriage equality to every state last June. The costs to the state would be significant, as indicated by the fiscal note added to the bill. Billions of dollars are at stake. The state is already facing a $2.3 Million legal bill for fighting marriage equality the first time.

The impact on married couples could be devastating. If the bill passes while a married person is in the hospital, his or her spouse might not be able to visit or help make medical decisions. HB1412 could interrupt parenting arrangements and the list goes on.