Arizona Judges Can't Refuse Same-Sex Weddings

Arizona judges who perform weddings can't refuse to perform ceremonies for same-sex couples.

A state committee on judiciary ethics said turning away gay couples would violate rules against bias or prejudice.

The committee also said that a judge's religious beliefs about the definition of marriage aren't a valid reason to refuse to perform a ceremony.

Cathi Herrod, president of the Center for Arizona Policy, said the opinion tramples on judges' religious rights.

"We are looking at all options," Herrod told The Arizona Republic. "There is a reconsideration process that's set out. The opinion certainly will have a binding effect on justices of the peace and judges, so we are looking at all options."

Gay marriage became legal in Arizona in October.