CHIPLEY — County clerks in Florida will begin issuing marriage licenses for same-sex couples beginning Tuesday, the result of a Washington County case and the judge’s subsequent ruling.
In August, U.S. District Judge Robert Hinkle found the state’s gay marriage ban unconstitutional after Chipley residents Ozzie Russ and Steve Schlairet sued the Washington County Clerk of Courts office for denying them a marriage license based on their status as a same-sex couple. The Florida Court Clerks and Comptrollers Association argued the order only applied to Washington County; however, the organization changed its stance after Hinkle’s order Thursday warned that while his ruling technically applies only to Washington County, his ruling also states the ban on gay marriage is unconstitutional, so clerks statewide who refuse to issue same-sex licenses will leave themselves open for lawsuits, such as that filed against Washington County.
The Washington County Clerk of Courts Office is among those choosing to heed that warning.
Washington County attorney Jeff Goodman stressed that the county’s main concern is ensuring local residents with other county business aren’t adversely affected by what could be increased traffic flow at the county offices.
“Our main focus will be on making sure the needs of all citizens are taken care of as they come to the county offices to conduct their business,” he said. “Logistically, we’re going to keep things as normal as possible for our citizens.”
The lift on the gay marriage ban received mixed — but passionate — reaction in Washington County.
“I think it’s an exciting time to be in Washington County,” said Myra Hood. “I’ve watched loved ones live frustration and discrimination for far too long. This is another step forward in ensuring equal rights for all citizens, and I’m proud to say I live right here where the fire was lit for Florida’s marriage equality."
Tim Lanham, pastor of Live Oak Baptist Church, is among local spiritual leaders opposing the lifting of the gay marriage ban.
Other pastors and I are “opposed to the decision on three points,” Lanham said. “First, it doesn’t represent the will of the people. Washington County has voted in favor of traditional marriage at a much higher percentage than the rest of the state. Secondly, it’s bad for society because it creates a breakdown of the real family unit, and the real family unit is the strength on which our nation is built. Finally, we also oppose gay marriage … because it’s unbiblical, and we stand on Biblical principles. Marriage was first ordained by God, not man.”
Lanham also stressed that while he’s against gay marriage, he has no ill will toward Russ and Schlairet.
“We do not hate or dislike these gentlemen who filed the original suit,” he said. “We just stand for traditional marriage.”