In the news:
Originally published February 6, 2012 at 5:03 PM | Page modified February 6, 2012 at 10:26 PM
Gay-marriage appeal decision coming down in California
A federal appeals court is expected to rule Tuesday on the constitutionality of Proposition 8, the 2008 ballot measure that banned gay marriage in California.
Los Angeles Times
SAN FRANCISCO — A federal appeals court is expected to rule Tuesday on the constitutionality of Proposition 8, the 2008 ballot measure that banned gay marriage in California.
Regardless of how a three-judge panel of the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals decides the case, its ruling is likely to be appealed to the U.S. Supreme Court, which could decide next year whether gays and lesbians nationwide have a right to marry.
Former Chief U.S. District Judge Vaughn R. Walker, 67, a Republican appointee, ruled in August 2010 that Proposition 8 violated the federal Constitution. ProtectMarriage, the sponsors of Proposition 8, appealed his ruling to the 9th Circuit.
The appeals panel's decision is scheduled to be released by 10 a.m. PST. During arguments, the panel appeared to be leaning toward striking down the marriage ban.
