​Today, Congressman Alcee L. Hastings (D-FL) released the following statement applauding the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision to deny the extension of a stay on Florida’s same-sex marriage ban, found unconstitutional by the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida:

“I am pleased and heartened by the U.S. Supreme Court’s denial of Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi’s request that Justice Clarence Thomas, who oversees emergency appeals from Florida, extend a stay preventing the state from recognizing the marriages of gay and lesbian couples.  Beginning January 6, 2015, Florida may issue same-sex marriage licenses and must recognize all same-sex marriages performed out of state.  This is truly an exciting and long awaited day for all Americans. 

“Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi’s failed appeals to the U.S. 11th Circuit Court of Appeals and to U.S. Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas to extend the January 5, 2015 stay on U.S. District Judge Robert Hinkle’s August ruling serve as evidence that her view is not shared by a majority of Americans and represents an affront to equality for all of our nation’s citizens.

“The Court’s refusal to keep the stay in place is a historic victory for gay and lesbian Americans who have endured discrimination and have, along with their families, been denied critical rights and benefits under the law for far too long.   We have a responsibility to ensure that that our laws recognize the equal rights of all Americans, regardless of their sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. I celebrate the Court’s decision and hope that our nation as a whole will continue to recognize the equal rights of all Americans and reflect this in our laws at the federal, state, and local levels.
 
Congressman Alcee L. Hastings serves as Senior Member of the House Rules Committee, Ranking Democratic Member of the U.S. Helsinki Commission, and Co-Chairman of the Florida Delegation.

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