AN appeals court in New York has ruled that a US law defining
marriage as between a man and a woman is unconstitutional, saying the
gay population has suffered a "history of discrimination".
The national fight over gay marriage is expected to reach the country's top court soon.
The Second US Circuit Court of Appeals found no reason the Defence of Marriage Act could be used to deny benefits to married gay couples.
James Esseks, an attorney for the American Civil Liberties Union, called the ruling "fabulous news for same-sex couples in New York and other states".
The national fight over gay marriage is expected to reach the country's top court soon.
The Second US Circuit Court of Appeals found no reason the Defence of Marriage Act could be used to deny benefits to married gay couples.
James Esseks, an attorney for the American Civil Liberties Union, called the ruling "fabulous news for same-sex couples in New York and other states".