Gay marriages could begin in Va., barring delay

A federal appeals court appears to have cleared the way for same-sex marriages to begin in Virginia as early as next week.

But the U.S. Supreme Court could effectively put same-sex marriages on hold again if opponents in the case are able to win an emergency delay.

The state also would need to start recognizing gay marriages from out of state on Aug. 21 after the 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals' decision not to delay its ruling that struck down the state's gay marriage ban.

A county clerk in northern Virginia had asked the court in Richmond to stay its decision issued in late July while it's appealed to the high court. The appeals court's order didn't explain why it denied that request.

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