Topeka ? Senators adopted Thursday a proposed amendment to the Kansas Constitution to ban same-sex marriage.

The measure also would prohibit the state from allowing civil unions for gay couples or granting other legal recognition to their relationships. The proposal declares that only couples in a union of one man and one woman would be entitled to the benefits normally associated with marriage.

The 28-11 vote sent the measure to the House. Supporters had one vote more than the two-thirds majority necessary for adoption in the 40-member chamber.

The Senate moved with unusual speed to consider the measure. Republican leaders scheduled the vote on the fourth day of the legislative session, without having public hearings or a committee review. Debate lasted less than an hour.

If adopted by the House, the measure would go before voters on the April 5 ballot.