On Thursday, Judge Mary Jacobson rejected the state of New Jersey’s appeal to stop same-sex marriages. Back in September, the Superior Court Judge had ruled that civil unions got in the way of federal benefits, and therefore were not enough for same-sex couples. New Jersey tried to halt that motion, but Jacobson denied it, referring to the recent Supreme Court decision, which guaranteed same-sex couples federal benefits as long as they were legally married in a state. However, New Jersey’s argument was that it already provides equal benefits to couples with civil unions, and could not be held responsible for federal benefits.
Beginning October 21, same-sex couples will be able to get married in New Jersey, but according to State Attorney General’s Office spokesman Lee Moore, the state will go to an appellate court for a stay of the motion.
Despite that, same-sex couples are excited for the momentous step. “This is a historic moment for all loving and committed couples in New Jersey,” said Mike Premo of New Jersey United For Marriage. “The fact that those who have waited so long for this moment can get married in just 11 days is truly amazing and something to be celebrated.”
New Jersey governor Chris Christie stated that he wants the voters to decide on the marriage equality issue. “I don’t think (the issue) should be decided by 121 politicians in Trenton or seven judges on the Supreme Court,” Christie said. “It should be decided by the 8.8 million people of New Jersey, and if they do decide to change the definition of marriage by referendum then I will support that law and enforce that part of the constitution with the same vigor that I’ve done for the last four years with every other part.”
