Appeals court refuses to stay marriage decision

AFP

The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit today denied a request to delay implementation of its ruling striking down Virginia laws denying marriage to same-sex couples. The court’s action means that, unless the Supreme Court intervenes, couples may begin marrying and having their out-of-state marriages recognized in Virginia on August 18.

Senate confirms Patricia Millett for appeals court

AFP

The post-judicial filibusters era is off to a rousing start with the Senate confirmation Tuesday of Patricia Millett, of Alexandria to serve on the United States Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit.The Senate voted 56-38 to confirm Millett, who was blocked by a Republican filibuster on Oct. 31 in a move that prompted Senate Democrats to push for a rules change.