La. Judge Bars Vote on Same-Sex Amendment

NEW ORLEANS – A Louisiana (search) judge has ruled that a proposed constitutional amendment banning same-sex marriages and civil unions is unconstitutional and must be taken off the September 18th ballot.

In a ruling issued late Friday, Judge Christopher Bruno (search) said the proposed amendment is unconstitutional because it addresses more than one issue -- and would appear on a ballot that was not on a statewide election date.

Bruno agreed with opponents of the amendment that it illegally focuses on multiple objectives -- not just outlawing gay marriages -- but also civil unions and other legal relationships that bestow "the incidents of marriage."

Several cases involving the proposals are circulating through various courts.

Legal observers say the issue is likely to be resolved at the state Supreme Court.