Arizona voters may be asked to decide whether to reaffirm the legality of same-sex marriage in the state, with a new initiative proposed for the 2026 ballot. Advocates say the measure would solidify protections for LGBTQ+ couples and ensure that marriage rights remain intact, even if the U.S. Supreme Court overturns its 2015 Obergefell v. Hodges decision. While same-sex marriage is currently protected by federal law, backers argue that a state constitutional amendment banning it — which still exists in Arizona law — could be enforced if federal protections are rolled back.
The effort, led by Equality Arizona and other LGBTQ+ advocacy groups, seeks to gather over 400,000 signatures by July 2026 to get on the general election ballot. Supporters believe the campaign will affirm the state’s commitment to equality, but opponents argue it’s unnecessary given current federal law. The Arizona Supreme Court has yet to weigh in on whether the state’s existing ban remains enforceable in the absence of federal protections.
Read more about Arizona home prices.