A Northeast Missouri legislator delivered a heartfelt and very personal address in opposition to a controversial constitutional amendment.

The measure was dubbed the religious freedom bill, and would have protected people from providing services to homosexuals. It was stopped after a tie vote in the House Emerging Issues Committee.

Representative Jim Hansen of Frankford was one of three Republicans who joined three Democrats in voting against advancing the proposal.

In addressing the committee, Hansen noted his strong Christian roots and said he has a gay family member whom he loves and does not judge. The Associated Press reported the lawmaker spoke quietly and wept before the vote was taken.

Hansen said he had talked extensively about the constitutional amendment with his wife and church pastor. In the end, Hansen said he had to put his faith in God and not man.

Supporters of the plan vow to continue seeking legislative passage. The amendment would require statewide voter approval before it could be placed in the constitution.