The bill that would keep religious leaders from being forced to marry same-sex couples passed its first test at the Capitol Thursday. The legislation, known as the Pastor Protection bill, made it through a House Judiciary Subcommittee with minor changes.

The bill was first proposed by Republican House Speaker David Ralston (R-Blue Ridge) last summer after the U.S. Supreme Court's decision affirming same-sex marriage. It's being sponsored in the House by Rep. Kevin Tanner (R-Dawsonville).

Ralston has asked Georgia lawmakers to prioritize the bill over other religious liberty legislation being considered this year. He says the Pastor Protection bill is less divisive than the others.

Tags: Pastor Protection; David Ralston; Kevin Tanner