Supreme Court Rules on DOMA and Prop 8 related to Same-Sex Marriage

Earlier today, the Supreme Court issued its 5-4 ruling on the constitutionality of recent same-sex marriage laws, including the recently passed gay marriage ban, known as proposition eight (prop 8) in California and the Defense of Marriage Act or DOMA. The highest court in the land ruled that the California law was unconstitutional which opens the way for same-sex marriage again in that state.

The other ruling by the court was another victory for those in favor of gay rights and same-sex marriage. The court has ruled that same-sex couples, married in one of the 12 states, and the District of Columbia, currently allowing the marriages, are entitled to receive the same legal benefits as other married couples.

This comes as a result of the court’s ruling against the Defense of Marriage Act or DOMA. As a result the federal government must now recognize the same-sex marriages which took place in any of these states where it has been made legal.

Thousands of supporters were gathered outside of the court earlier today awaiting the court’s decision. Media were also on hand as the ruling was handed down, and captured the cheers and celebration which broke-out with the news was made public.