ACLU Challenges N. Carolina Gay Marriage Ban

The American Civil Liberties Union plans to launch a challenge of North Carolina's ban on same-sex marriages, the Charlotte Observer reports.

Chris Brook, legal director for the ACLU of North Carolina, said the group will ask the state Attorney General to allow it to amend a lawsuit filed on behalf of six same-sex couples where one partner wanted to adopt the other's child.

The ACLU's request follows the U.S. Supreme Court's historic death knell to part of the Defense of Marriage Act.

Voters in the Tar Heel State last year backed an amendment to the state constitution stating that marriages between a man and woman are the only legal unions allowed.

"All we're asking is they consent to our amending the complaint," Brook told the Observer. "Marriage strengthens families. It gives couples the tools and securities to build their lives together."