MICHIGAN: State Ordered To Recognize 300 Marriages Conducted Before Stay
A federal judge validated 300 same-sex marriages in Michigan today, calling them a "fundamental right." "In these circumstances, what the state has joined together, it may not put asunder.," U.S. District Judge Mark Goldsmith said in his opinion. The 300 couples wed last March after a federal judge struck down the state's ban on same sex marriage. The state has since refused to recognize them. The American Civil Liberties Union of Michigan sued in federal court. The lawsuit was filed on behalf of eight same-sex couples who married within 24 hours after a federal judge struck down Michigan's ban on gay marriage, concluding the prohibition was unconstitutional. Within hours after the ceremonies, following a request by the state, which is appealing the issue. Michigan Attorney General Bill Schuette issued a statement after today's ruling. "We are reviewing Judge Goldsmith's decision but as I have said repeatedly, the sooner the United States Supreme Court makes a decision on this issue the better it will be for Michigan and America," he said.(Tipped by JMG reader TJ)
UPDATE: The Free Press has edited the above story to correct the name of the judge. Read the ruling.
Labels: marriage equality, Michigan, Sixth Circuit Court
