Central Ohio's large gay population is celebrating today's ruling by the Massachusetts Supreme Court. The decision said it is unconstitutional to ban gay marriage. The decision does not affect Ohio directly, but it's already having an impact on the debate over a proposed gay marriage ban.
Stonewall Columbus director Kate Anderson called the Massachusetts decision a great victory for gays and lesbians across the country. Opponents of gay marriage denounce the ruling. The Christian Coalition of Ohio's Chris Long says he's unhappy with the decision, and the organization will now focus its efforts on convincing Ohio lawmakers to pass the defense of marriage act. The Massachusetts ruling does not directly affect Ohio. Gay marriage supporter Tim downing is an attorney and member of Ohioans for growth and equality. He doubts Ohio would see a similar case in Ohio because the Ohio constitution differs from the Massachusetts constitution.
