Laws against Gay Marriage Unconstitutional...

[sarettah]

http://story.news.yahoo.com/news?tmpl=stor...us/gay_marriage

Mass. Ruling Boosts Same-Sex Marriage
By JENNIFER PETER, Associated Press Writer

BOSTON - In the nation's most far-reaching decision of its kind, Massachusetts' highest court declared Tuesday that the state constitution guarantees gay couples the right to marry — a ruling celebrated with a popping of champagne corks and the planning of spring weddings.

"Without a doubt, this is the happiest day of our lives," said Gloria Bailey, who with her partner of 32 years was among the seven gay couples who had sued the state in 2001 for refusing to issue them marriage licenses.

In its 4-3 decision, the Supreme Judicial Court gave the Legislature six months to rewrite the state's marriage laws for the benefit of gay couples.

Although courts in other states have issued similar rulings, some legal experts said this one goes further in its emphatic language and appears to suggest that gay couples should be offered nothing less than marriage itself — and not a lesser alternative such as civil unions, which are available in Vermont

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