WISCONSIN: At Least Two Counties Ready To Issue Marriage Licenses Right Now, Attorney General Vows To Appeal

Milwaukee County:

Milwaukee County Executive Chris Abele announced that the Courthouse would remain open late Friday night to allow for same-sex marriages. “I have been waiting decades for this day to finally arrive and we won’t make loving couples wait longer than they want to to get married,” Abele said. Abele will personally pay for any overtime costs associated with keeping the Courthouse open.

Dane County:

Dane County Clerk Scott McDonnell told News 3 the office will remain open until 9 p.m. and staff will be brought in from other counties to help Friday and Saturday. He said he plans to begin issuing licenses at 5 p.m. A statement from Attorney General J.B. Van Hollen said current law remains in force and he will appeal the ruling. "While today’s decision is a setback, we will continue to defend the constitutionality of our traditional marriage laws," he wrote. "I will appeal."