Alabama could say ‘yes’ to gay marriages after a federal judge ruled on Thursday that authorities in the Southern state should begin issuing same-sex marriage licenses. The decision was currently placed on hold as the judges await for a ruling in the Obergefell vs. Hodges case in June.
The beginning of 2015 was generally characterized by numerous debates relate to same-sex marriage, especially on the territory of Alabama. Discussions sparkled when a federal judge ruled in January that authorities should begin acknowledging same-sex marriages through official documents.
As one might expect, the January ruling triggered both supportive and critical voices on behalf of Alabama’s inhabitants. The decision, however, was momentarily placed on hold as a decisive moment will take place in June when the Supreme Court will have a say on the Obergefell v. Hodges case.
According to Judge Callie Granade banning same-sex marriages is unconstitutional; therefore, the Supreme Court of Alabama should reconsider their position and try to be more open-minded, instead. Granade has fallen into the disgrace of Albama’s Supreme Court after issuing her January ruling.
The Supreme Court prohibited state judges to issue same-sex marriage licenses. Defendant Don Davis, too, did not obey to Granade’s ruling as a sign of rebellion. He publicly expressed his intention to refuse same-sex marriage licenses.
Granade, on the other hand made an authority appeal to convince the Supreme Court that her ruling must be obeyed. Based on her declarations, her authority of federal judge supersedes the decision power of the Supreme Court in Alabama.
The upcoming ruling in the Obergefell v. Hodges case will definitely mark an important moment in the History of the United States. This June’s case could establish once and for all, whether same-sex marriages should be acknowledged by all U.S. states or not. The other possibility is that the ruling of the court could give each and every state the possibility to establish their own marriage policies.
Granade further stated, that her January ruling will, nonetheless, get accepted, if either of the two rulings get accepted. It remains to be seen what will happen if the Supreme Court refuses to comply with the new rules.
Although the January ruling has fueled numerous discussions in relation to homosexual marriages, the three-month period was very good for the gay community in Alabama. Numerous gay couples have grasped this opportunity to legalize their relationships. According to the recent report, more than 500 gay couples married during this time interval.
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