Colo. Gay Marriage Ban on Legal Thin Ice

BRIGHTON, Colo. - Colorado's gay marriage ban appears to be on thin ice after a court hearing Monday.

The judge hearing two lawsuits against the ban repeatedly noted that 15 other judges have recently struck down gay marriage bans. C. Scott Crabtree also mocked the Colorado Attorney General's argument that the ban was needed to protect the procreative nature of marriage. Crabtree mentioned two friends of his who are getting married at age 65 and said procreation is not a reason for that union.

Colorado voters banned gay marriage in 2006. Crabtree was hearing arguments in two lawsuits filed recently challenging the measure. He will issue a written ruling later. His decision will likely be appealed.a