Idaho Governor Butch Otter won a temporary freeze on a federal judge's ruling that would have allowed same-sex couples in the state to marry as of tomorrow.
The U.S. Court of Appeals in San Francisco Thursday issued a one-sentence order delaying the implementation of Magistrate Judge Candy Dale’s decision in Boise as it considers a longer freeze during the state’s appeal.
There are now 23 states where same-sex weddings have become legal through court ruling, popular vote or legislation. Court-ordered stays, in place during appeals, prevent same-sex marriages from being performed in some jurisdictions.
"Idaho will not have to endure the same kind of chaos and confusion that Utah faced after a similar challenge," Otter said in an e-mailed statement, referring to a two-week opening that allowed same-sex couples in Utah to marry between the time prohibition of the practice was struck down by a judge and a freeze on the ruling was imposed by an appeals court.
"I am committed to defending our constitution and the will of Idaho voters," Otter said.
Shannon Minter, a lawyer representing plaintiff Susan Latta in Idaho, didn’t immediately return e-mail messages seeking comment on today’s order.
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