Supreme Court Denies Request to Stay Gay Marriage in Alaska

The U.S. Supreme Court on Friday denied the state of Alaska's request to put a stop to gay marriages pending an appeal.

Justice Anthony Kennedy denied the request in a written order Friday morning.

U.S. District Court Judge Timothy Burgess on Sunday ruled the state's ban on same-sex marriage was unconstitutional.

Couples began applying for marriage licenses on Monday, beginning a three-day clock before ceremonies could be held. However, some couples received waivers to the wait period and married immediately.

The state filed notice of appeal to 9th Circuit Court of Appeals and sought a stay while the appeal is being considered. The court only issued a stay until 11 a.m. Alaska time Friday to give the state time to petition the high court.

This story is part of our special report: "Gay Marriage". Want to read more? Here's the full list.