(JEFFERSON CITY, Mo.) Missouri State Representative Wick Thomas (D-Kansas City) has introduced a bill that would repeal language in Missouri law that prohibits the recognition of same-sex marriages.

House Bill 1459 aims to remove provisions that define marriage exclusively as a union between a man and a woman. Ensuring all couples, regardless of gender, receive equal legal recognition, according to a news release.

"Marriage is a basic human right, and states should not interfere with our personal freedom to choose same-sex marriage," Rep. Thomas said. "All couples deserve to be recognized and respected in this state."

Missouri statutes contain provisions that declare same-sex marriage invalid, prohibit the issuance of marriage licenses to couples, and do not recognize same-sex marriages from other jurisdictions.

HB 1459 would repeal these policies.

"My marriage to my husband should not be in the hands of politicians," Thomas added. "It is past time for Missouri to align its laws with the fundamental values of equality and justice."