2 Ohio Counties Say They're Prepared To Begin Issuing Marriage Licenses To Gay Couples

Two Ohio counties have announced that they're prepared to begin issuing marriage licenses to gay and lesbian couples if the Supreme Court strikes down the state's ban on gay marriage.

A case before the nation's highest court challenges bans in four states, including Ohio. The ruling, expected at any moment, could strike down the nation's remaining 13 bans, leading to nationwide marriage equality.

Ohio's most populous county, Cuyahoga County, which includes Cleveland, said Tuesday that its probate courts “will be ready, willing and able to promptly issue such licenses in accordance with the law.”

“We have already implemented the necessary software changes in anticipation of this potential outcome so that all marriage applications and forms will automatically be processed through our case management system,” officials said in a press release. “Consequently, issuance of marriage licenses will not be suspended for any length of time, and every effort will be made to keep delays, if any, to a minimum.”

Officials in nearby Portage County said last week that if the court strikes down Ohio's ban, its probate courts will begin issuing marriage licenses to gay couples the following day.

Ohio voters approved the ban in 2004.