Anti-gay marriage laws upheld in 4 states

AP / Al Behrman

Gay marriage supporters follow an opponent of gay marriage driving his truck around Fountain Square where several hundred gay marriage supporters rallied in Cincinnati on Aug. 6, 2014. After a series of developments on gay marriage this week, there’s growing anticipation for a ruling by the federal appeals court in Cincinnati. A 6th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals panel heard arguments two months ago on challenges to gay marriage bans in four states. Its eventual ruling could help determine when or even whether the U.S. Supreme Court takes up the issue.

Thursday, Nov. 6, 2014 | 1:45 p.m.

CINCINNATI - A federal appeals court in Cincinnati has upheld anti-gay marriage laws in four states, breaking ranks with other courts that have considered the issue and setting up the prospect of Supreme Court review.

The 6th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals panel that heard arguments on gay marriage bans or restrictions in Ohio, Michigan, Kentucky and Tennessee on Aug. 6 split 2-1, with Circuit Judge Jeffrey Sutton writing the majority opinion. The ruling revealed Wednesday creates a divide among federal appeals courts, increasing the likelihood the Supreme Court will now take up the issue.