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Tennessee officials waiting for gay marriage ruling before action

In this June 19, 2015, photo, Pastor Greg Bullard is shown outside his chapel in Madison, Tenn. Bullard intends to perform same-sex weddings in the chapel if the U.S. Supreme Court lifts the state's gay marriage ban.
In this June 19, 2015, photo, Pastor Greg Bullard is shown outside his chapel in Madison, Tenn. Bullard intends to perform same-sex weddings in the chapel if the U.S. Supreme Court lifts the state's gay marriage ban. In this June 19, 2015, photo, Pastor Greg Bullard is shown outside his chapel in Madison, Tenn. Bullard intends to perform same-sex weddings in the chapel if the U.S. Supreme Court lifts the state's gay marriage ban.

By Associated Press 3 min read

NASHVILLE — In Tennessee, state and local officials say they are taking a wait-and-see approach to the possibility that the U.S. Supreme Court could overturn the state’s ban on gay marriage.

Asked recently about any preparation, Gov. Bill Haslam said “discussions have been happening” at the state Attorney General’s office and the various departments. But he said until the ruling comes down, “it’s hard to say what the ‘ifs’ and ‘buts’ are.”

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Couples, officials, foes readying for U.S. gay marriage ruling

County clerks’ offices are where residents go for marriage certificates, but it is not clear how soon they will begin issuing certificates to gay couples if the ban is overturned.

Wayne Mashburn, president of the Tennessee County Clerks Association, said the clerks will take their direction from the County Officials Association of Tennessee. The director of that association, Jay West, would say only that they are “first waiting to see what the Supreme Court decision is.”