The Supreme Court has legalized same-sex marriage nationwide. In a five to four decision Justice Anthony Kennedy writes for the court saying the 14th amendment requires states to issue marriage licenses to same-sex couples.
In a written statement Republican Gov. Gary Herbert wrote that he is disappointed with the decision by the court because the justices usurped state authority.
“Marriage, as defined by the people of Utah, has been redefined, first by the federal courts and today the outcome of that decision has been upheld by the U.S. Supreme Court,” Herbert said.
Herbert wrote that by overruling the voice of the people of Utah as demonstrated by legislation with regard to marriage the court’s decision comes as a disappointment.
“I am very concerned with the overwhelming trend to diminish state autonomy,” he said. “I believe states should have the right to determine their own laws regarding marriage.”
The Supreme Court's decision to legalize same-sex marriage requires states to issue marriage licenses to all couples and requires that states recognize the legality of gay marriages from other states when couples move.
"It has to be nation-wide,” said Carole Burton, a resident of Avon, Utah who says she supports Northern Utah’s LGBT community. “It couldn't possibly work with just the states making their own decisions on this matter.”
Doree Burton is with the organization Mormons Building Bridges and said in the case of same-sex marriage the states need to give up their rights.
"If they were married in one state they can now go to another state and still be married," she said. "I really have spent most of the morning just reading exuberant texts and testimonies of people who are LGBT or parents of people who are LGBT and being excited with the people who were just thrilled”.
Governor Herbert says Friday's decision by the majority of justices provides finality with respect to the law concerning same-sex marriage.
*The full interview is included below*
