US: Decision expected on challenge to Michigan gay marriage ban within two weeks

The presiding judge in a lawsuit challenging the US state of Michigan’s ban on same-sex couples marrying, has said he expects to rule in the next two weeks.

Federal Judge Bernard Friedman wrapped up Friday’s testimony from both those for and against same-sex marriage, and said the decision would be heard soon.

The lawsuit challenges a 2004 voter-approved ban on same-sex marriage and is brought by two Detroit nurses who say it violates the US Constitution.

Earlier this week, County Clerk Lisa Brown was called because she is the county clerk for the area in which the plaintiffs in the case live.

Despite being called by the defence counsel for the ban, she testified that she would issue marriage licences to same-sex couples, if ordered by a federal judge. 

Later in the day, during the lawsuit challenging the ban, a witness for its defence was banned from testifying.

• Dec 01 2023

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