A federal judge in Oregon is set to rule Monday in a case that could legalize same-sex marriage in the state. U.S. District Judge Michael McShane says he'll issue a ruling at noon.
The case pits four same-sex couples against the state of Oregon, which bans gay marriage. Gay rights advocates say a ruling in their favor would open the door for all same-sex couples to be legally married in Oregon.
The state says it's ready to distribute marriage license applications immediately to same-sex couples if the judge overturns the ban. Last week Judge McShane turned down a national group's last-minute attempt to defend the 2004 voter-approved ballot measure.
If the judge rules against gay marriage, Oregon voters could have a chance to overturn the ban this fall.