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Judge rules county clerk in Kentucky not entitled to more delays – then stays own decision
Marriage licenses are still not being issued to any couples – same-sex or otherwise – in Kentucky’s Rowan County.
US District Judge David Bunning sent a confusing message from the bench on Monday (17 August) that had both sides in a lawsuit brought against County Clerk Kim Davis claiming some kind of victory.
Bunning ruled last week that Davis could no longer legally refuse to issue licenses to same-sex couples despite her religious objections. But her office continued to do so in her absence last Thursday (13 August).
Bunning then ruled Monday that Davis, who is appealing the ruling, is not entitled to any more delays. But the judge also stayed that decision because ’emotions are running high on both sides of this debate.’
The Associated Press reports that attorneys for Davis believe this ruling gives Davis more time as they wait to see if the 6th US Circuit Court of Appeals will take the case. Meanwhile, attorneys for the couples suing Davis believe licenses must be issued now.
Davis was sued by the American Civil Liberties Union on behalf of four couples – two straight and two gay. She has cited religious beliefs in refusing to provide marriage licenses to any couple – same-sex or opposite sex – since a 26 June Supreme Court ruling that made same-sex marriage legal in all 50 states.
Bunning ruled that Davis’ personal religious beliefs do not exempt her from from performing the duties of her public office. He wrote in his ruling that Davis ‘is refusing to recognize the legal force of US Supreme Court jurisprudence in performing her duties.’
Kentucky Governor Steve Beshear had previously weighed in telling Davis and other clerks to issue licenses or resign.
The post Judge rules county clerk in Kentucky not entitled to more delays – then stays own decision appeared first on Gay Star News.
Greg Hernandez
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