A New York State judge has ruled that 25 gay couples from out of state could not be granted marriage licenses in New York by the Ithaca city clerk who was directed not to issue the licenses to same-sex couples.

Judge Robert C. Mulvey ruled that the legislature, not the judiciary, had the right to change the laws concerning marriage in New York State.

The judge held, 'Social perceptions of same-sex civil contracts may change over time, and every group has the right to persuade its fellow citizens that its view of such matters is the best,' Mulvey wrote. 'If that day comes, it is within the province of the Legislature to so act.'


The 25 same-sex couples, dubbed the 'Ithaca 50,' claimed that they were being discriminated against because of their sexual orientation.

The attorney for the 25 same-sex couples indicated that there would be an appeal.