ACLU Files Lawsuit to Enforce Benefits of Same-Sex Marriages

It was expected since a federal judge in Detroit struck down Michigan's ban on same-sex marriage as unconstitutional.  But today, members of the ACLU are maing it official.  They're suing the state to win recognition of benefits for those who were married right after the ruling was made.

MLive.com is reporting today that an official announcement of the suit is expected later today in Detroit.  Families affected by the outcome are expected to be in attendance.

An estimated 300 same-sex couples were married  in four Michigan counties on March 22nd in the hours between Judge Bernard Friedman's ruling and a stay that was granted at the request of Attorney General Bill Schuette.  While their marriages are being recognized by the federal government, state officials are refusing to do so until the issue makes its way through the court system.

The report indicates that the idea of a lawsuit was floated after comments that those married during the time are now being treated like "second-class citizens."

A similar lawsuit was filed against the state of Utah.  Oral arguments in that case have already been given although a decision has not yet been rendered.

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