Preparations Underway in Anticipation of Ruling on Michigan’s Gay Marriage Ban

A decision on whether a federal judge in Detroit will strike down Michigan's ban on gay marriage could come down in a matter of days.  But both sides of the controversial issue aren't waiting for the ruling to get their ducks in a row on what happens next.

U. S. District Judge Bernard Friedman is weighing testimony presented over a two week period from both sides of the issue on whether the voter approved law, which states a marriage is between one man and one woman, is unconstitutional.

The Detroit News is reporting today that clerks across the state are getting ready to be able to issue gay marriage licenses should the judge strike the ban down.

Those fighting to keep it in place, though, including Attorney General Bill Schuette, say it was the will of the people and no court ruling should negate it.  He's opting instead for another vote to see if feelings about the gay marriage issue have changed.

The paper also says Schuette has issued a notice to clerks that no action should be taken--including issuing marriage licenses--until "the matter reaches final disposition on appeal."  Schuette vows to continue to uphold the law.

If, however, Friedman rules that the ban is a violation of rights, Michigan is poised to become the 18th state to legalize gay marriage.