Iowa Judge Strikes Down Law Banning Same-Sex Marriage

DES MOINES - A Polk County judge overturned an Iowa law banning same-sex marriage. Judge Robert Hanson found the prohibition unconstitutional and ordered the county recorder to issue marriage licenses to the six gay couples who had challenged the law.

Two Des Moines men applied for a marriage license less than two hours after the ruling was publicized, the Associated Press reported. Polk County is expected to appeal to the Iowa Supreme Court. County Attorney John Sarcone told the AP that the county filed a motion to stay, which could prevent gay couples from seeking a marriage license until an appeal can be heard. Pending appeal, Iowa becomes the second state after Massachusetts to allow gay marriages. States that allow civil unions include New Jersey

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