MADISON, WI (AP)-- Gay couples are gathering in Madison to celebrate a federal appeals court ruling that Wisconsin's gay marriage ban is unconstitutional.
Eight gay couples challenged the ban in federal court in February. U.S. District Judge Barbara Crabb found the ban unconstitutional in June but stayed her ruling pending appeal. Republican Attorney General J.B. Van Hollen asked the 7th Circuit Court of Appeals to reverse Crabb but the court refused on Thursday. Van Hollen has vowed to appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court.
Still, same-sex couples gathered at Plan B, a gay bar in Madison, to celebrate with drinks and talk to reporters. Judi Trampf and Katy Heyning, one of the couples suing, said they're thrilled and the 7th Circuit ruling sends a strong message to Washington.