Family groups says Louisiana court’s decision of marriage amendment will be appealed

Washington D.C., Oct 5, 2004 / 22:00 pm

The Family Research Council said a decision by Louisiana Judge William Morvant to strike down Louisiana's Marriage Protection Amendment will be appealed to the appellate court and, “if necessary, the State Supreme Court.”

The amendment was struck down even though voters overwhelmingly approved it Sept. 18. The judge claimed that the amendment, which was drawn up by the Legislature, was flawed because it had more than one purpose: banning not only same-sex marriage but also civil unions.

"We have judges acting in arrogance to usurp the actions of the legislature and deny the voters of Louisiana,” said Family Research Council president Tony Perkins. “Judge Morvant's ruling underscores the disturbing trend of judges undermining the authority of the legislature and muting the voice of the people.”