Today Judge Vaughn Walker announced he will lift the stay on his decision in Perry v. Schwarzenegger on August 18, allowing California to once again issue marriage licenses to same-sex couples barring an appeal. With today’s decision, there remain many steps – and unanswered questions – in this case. Prop 8 supporters are likely to appeal the stay decision to the Ninth Circuit, which could issue its own stay and stop marriage licenses from being issued. Additionally, supporters of Prop 8 have already filed their appeal of the entire case with the Ninth Circuit.
HRC President Joe Solmonese released the following statement:
“Lifting the stay will put Judge Walker’s basic premise that the state can’t discriminate against same-sex couples into action. Californians deserve equality and they deserve it now.
“Ending the enforcement of this discriminatory and unconstitutional law will once again treat same-sex couples as full citizens of California. We look forward to the day when this becomes the permanent and unassailable reality for every family.”
