Kentucky’s Gay Marriage Ban Struck Down By Federal Judge

Kentucky’s ban on same-sex couples receiving marriage licenses and being wed was struck down by a federal judge Tuesday, reports the Associated Press.

In Tuesday’s ruling, U.S. District Judge John G. Heyburn said Kentucky’s ban on same-sex marriage violates the Equal Protection Clause of the U.S. Constitution. He concluded that the ban treats gay couples differently from straight couples.

The ruling is currently on hold since it will be appealed. Until the hold is removed, same-sex couples will remain unable to get marriage licenses in the state.

The ruling in Kentucky comes after it was revealed on June 20 that the Labor Department would present a rule that will change the interpretation of the Family Medical Leave Act, allowing same-sex spouses to take leave to care for family and loved ones, regardless of whether their state of residence allows gay marriage.

The Justice Department also announced that day its completion of a review that found in "almost all instances, federal benefits and obligations for same-sex married couples will be provided, regardless of where the couple lives."

The Family and Medical Leave Act lets employees take unpaid, job-protected leave for both medical and family purposes.