DES MOINES, Iowa, Aug. 31 (UPI)

A judge has ruled that same-sex couples can legally marry in Polk County, Iowa, the Des Moines Register reported Friday.

District Judge Robert Hanson said Thursday a state law declaring only marriage between males and females is valid, violates the due process and equal protection clauses of the Iowa Constitution.

His ruling came in a 2005 lawsuit brought by six gay and lesbian couples against Polk County Recorder Tim Brien, who no longer holds that post. Hanson ordered the current recorder to start applying state marriage rules “in a gender-neutral manner” so same-sex couples can marry.

So far, only one Polk County same-sex couple has applied for a marriage license.

Polk County Attorney John Sarcone said his office intends to appeal Hnason’s ruling, which applies only to Polk County.

County lawyers have formally requested that Hanson postpone implementing his decision until the issue is resolved by the Iowa Supreme Court, the Register said.

Iowa Gov. Chet Culver said he plans to follow the matter closely so he can determine “whether any additional legislative actions are appropriate or necessary.”

“While some Iowans may disagree on this issue, I personally believe marriage is between a man and a woman,” Culver said.

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