News

No more arguments in La. gay marriage case

by Walter Pierce

A federal judge has decided he doesn't need to hear more arguments in the case of a gay couple who want a Louisiana marriage license.

NEW ORLEANS (AP) - A federal judge has decided he doesn't need to hear more arguments in the case of a gay couple who want a Louisiana marriage license.

U.S. District Judge Martin Feldman has already heard arguments regarding Louisiana's refusal to recognize the unions of gay couples legally married in other states. At the end of that hearing he asked for briefs on related issues - including whether the state's refusal to let same-sex couples marry in Louisiana is constitutional. Feldman said he didn't want to make a piecemeal ruling on the gay marriage issue.

Feldman this week issued an order stating that he has studied the briefs in the case and found that no further briefs or arguments are needed. He gave no indication when he will rule.