Lawsuit nixed against Kentucky clerk who fought gay marriage

FRANKFORT, Ky. – A federal judge has dismissed a lawsuit against a Kentucky clerk who refused to issue marriage licenses to same-sex couples.

U.S. District Judge David Bunning issued orders Thursday dismissing the lawsuit brought by two gay couples and two straight couples against Rowan County Clerk Kim Davis.

Bunning’s orders come after the 6th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals dismissed Davis’ appeals last month because of a new state law that removes the names of county clerks from marriage licenses.

Davis spent five days in jail for refusing a judge’s order to issue the licenses. Her deputy clerks issued the licenses for her while she was incarcerated. Davis’ attorney Mat Staver declared victory, calling it a win for everyone who wants to remain true to their religious beliefs.