Missouri judge rules for marriage equality

A little something to celebrate: St. Louis Circuit Judge Rex Burlison has ruled that Missouri's ban on same-sex marriage is unconstitutional, in a case brought after four couples were married at St. Louis city hall.

"The Court finds and declares that any same sex couple that satisfies all the requirements for marriage under Missouri law, other than being of different sexes, is legally entitled to a marriage license," Burlison wrote. [...]

[Attorney General Chris] Koster supports same-sex marriage but said he has a legal responsibility to defend Missouri law. However, after losing the Kansas City case, Koster declined to appeal, saying the state is obligated to honor contracts entered into other states.

"Missouri's future will be one of inclusion not exclusion," Koster said. It was not immediately clear, however, whether Koster would appeal today's ruling. Gay rights advocates expect Koster will ask the Missouri Supreme Court to make a final ruling.

St. Louis is already issuing marriage licenses. Congratulations to the happy couples! 2:53 PM PT:

BREAKING: #Missouri Attorney General will not seek a stay in #STL #marriage ruling; will appeal to MO Supreme Court http://t.co/...
— @andrewshag