The hot-button issue of a constitutional amendment to ban gay marriage is likely to be left off the agenda when Indiana lawmakers meet in January.

A key supporter, Republican state Sen. Brandt Hershman, told The Indianapolis Star that he doesn't plan to raise the issue next year unless the House takes action first.

Democratic House Speaker Patrick Bauer has repeatedly said that Indiana's law prohibiting same-sex marriages is working.

Amendment supporters say the state constitution should be changed to prevent judges from misinterpreting the law or overruling it.

The amendment would have to pass two consecutive, separately elected General Assemblies and then win approval in a statewide vote to take effect.