Iowa Supreme Court's Marriage Ruling Respects Religious Liberty, Says AU

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An Iowa Supreme Court decision striking down a state ban on same-sex marriage is a welcome reaffirmation of religious liberty, says Americans United.

In their unanimous ruling April 3, the justices made it clear that religious denominations have a constitutional right to set their own rules about marriage but that civil law should reflect equal protection for all citizens and not be anchored in religious dogma.

"The court has reaffirmed religious liberty," said Barry W. Lynn, Americans United executive director, in a press statement. "The justices reminded us that religious groups are free to marry whomever they choose, but civil law cannot be based on any group's …