Can We Get A Divorce, Sally?

State Rep. Sally Kern, the infamous politician who once compared homosexuality to terrorism, is once again trying to press her worldview on Oklahomans.

This time, the Oklahoma City Republican, pictured right, is proposing legislation that could make it more difficult for many people here to get a divorce. House Bill 2279, if signed into law, would allow only certain Oklahomans to get a divorce based on incompatibility.

Here’s the key section of the bill:

Provided, however, that the court shall not grant a divorce on the ground of incompatibility if:
1. There are living minor children of the marriage;
2. The parties have been married ten (10) years or longer; or
3. Either party files a written objection to the granting of a divorce.

In other words, if the bill passes many people could have to stay in a marriage legally even if they didn’t want to. This could lead to protracted legal fights and more conflict between two people, who simply want to amicably end their marriage. It would also allow one person in the marriage to essentially hold their spouse hostage. Ending no-fault divorce would increase marriage problems, not solve them.

(Read TheOkie’s take on the issue on Blue Oklahoma.)

State Rep. Al McAffrey, an Oklahoma City Democrat, spoke out against Kern’s bill. In a prepared statement, McAffrey said, "As a leader of the Oklahoma Republican party, Sally Kern will stop at nothing in her misguided effort to embarrass our great state. Rep. Kern's bill limits Oklahomans' rights and restricts freedom to an entirely new level."

McAffrey added:

Frankly, I don't know when Rep. Kern finds the time to dream up this bizarre legislation. Our state is facing a budget crisis and several other significant challenges. Given the state of our economy, we need steady leaders in the legislature that are ready to create serious solutions, not political side shows."

Kern’s bill undoubtedly reflects her worldview. In the past, she has also tried to pass legislation that would allow more religious activities in the state’s public schools. She was also the author of the Oklahoma Citizens Proclamation for Morality, which drew media attention. Here’s the last part of the proclamation:

NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that we the undersigned elected officials of the people of Oklahoma, religious leaders and citizens of the State of Oklahoma, appealing to the Supreme Judge of the world, solemnly declare that the HOPE of the great State of Oklahoma and of these United States, rests upon the Principles of Religion and Morality as put forth in the HOLY BIBLE; and

BE IT RESOLVED that we, the undersigned, believers in the One True God and His only Son, call upon all to join with us in recognizing that "Blessed is the Nation whose God is the Lord," and humbly implore all who love Truth and Virtue to live above reproach in the sight of God and man with a firm reliance on the leadership and protection of Almighty God; and

BE IT RESOLVED that we, the undersigned, humbly call upon Holy God, our Creator, Sustainer, and Redeemer, to have mercy on this nation, to stay His hand of judgment, and grant a national awakening of righteousness and Christian renewal as we repent of our great sin.

Kern’s divorce bill is obviously a part of her continuing agenda to enforce her own ideology on the rest of us. Legislators should kill the bill in committee or vote against it if it makes it to the floor. If it passes, Gov. Brad Henry should not hesitate to veto it.