Photo: johnsheldon

In a decision passed down this morning, Iowa’s Supreme Court ruled that the definition of marriage should not apply solely to the union of a man and a woman, but could also apply to same-sex couples.

The ruling gives the green-light for gay and lesbian couples to tie the knot as early as April 24.

And the right to marry doesn’t just extend to Iowans: because the state has no residency clause regarding marriage on the books, couples from out of state can come to Iowa to marry legally.

Might Iowa see a sudden surge in its number of annual visitors? Though it’s not exactly known as a tourism magnet, the state may just see its tourism industry boom this year.

Community Connection:

If you’re in a same-sex partnership and thinking about marriage, but Iowa doesn’t appeal to you, check out “The World’s Best Spots for a Same-Sex Wedding.”

World Events
 

About The Author

Julie Schwietert

Julie Schwietert Collazo is a writer, editor, researcher, and translator currently in New York, formerly of Mexico City and San Juan. She is Matador's managing editor and is the lead faculty member of MatadorU's travel writing program.

  • Luke Nye

    This is great, I was born and raised in Iowa, and it usually gets a bad rap. It’s a nice state, and contrary to popular belief is fairly liberal overall. I’m happy for the people there and the people who can make it there for their weddings.

  • http://travelexperta.com marina villatoro

    Finally they are pushing forth. I’m totally pro gay marriages. it’s sooooooooo non of any one’s business what people do and the fact that they are getting so much resistance is simply ludicrous!
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