The U.S. Supreme Court ruled on Friday that same-sex marriage must be allowed in all 50 states. Not much changes in Florida because a federal court struck down Florida’s same-sex marriage ban early this year.
But Jacksonville residents Aaron Talbot and Joel Adams say, even though they’re already married, today’s ruling is still meaningful.
“I guess the biggest thing is having your own government tell you that you are welcome in the country in which you were born and where you want to live,” Talbot said. “That, for me, is the biggest victory here.”
The ruling means couples who were married in Florida can move to any state in the country and have their union recognized.
In response to the ruling, Florida Family Policy Council President John Stemberger sent out a newsletter saying the fight is not over. The conservative Orlando-based activist says he’ll work to restore the original definition of marriage, “even if it takes generations.”
Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi said in a statement “Our country has vigorously debated the issue, with good people on all sides. Many on both sides feel strongly about the issue, having deeply held and sincere beliefs.”
Bondi said, “Legal efforts were not about personal beliefs or opinions, but rather, the rule of law. The United States Supreme Court has the final word on interpreting the Constitution, and the court has spoken.”
