Arkansas justices complain of delay in gay marriage case

Little Rock, Ark. (AP) — Two members of Arkansas' Supreme Court — including the chief justice — are complaining that a separate case created over a challenge to the state's gay marriage ban is causing an unnecessary delay.

Chief Justice Jim Hannah and Associate Justice Paul Danielson on Wednesday recused themselves from the case over whether Justice Rhonda Wood, who was sworn in in January, helps decide whether gay marriage is legal in Arkansas. The court last week ruled that a separate case on the matter was needed.

Hannah and Danielson argued that a special justice appointed by former Gov. Mike Beebe should still participate. Wood replaced the justice who had recused himself during November arguments. Wood has also recused from deciding whether she can participate in the gay marriage case.

By Andrew DeMillo, Associated Press. Copyright 2015 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

The Gayly – April 8, 2015 @ 5:15pm.