The Supreme Court declined to hear Kim Davis’s petition challenging Obergefell and seeking First Amendment protection after she refused same sex marriage licenses. Davis, a former Kentucky clerk who was jailed for contempt and ordered to pay 360000 dollars to a couple, argued religious liberties conflict with Obergefell. The denial comes amid efforts in at least nine states to criticize Obergefell or restrict marriage to heterosexual couples, and after the Texas Supreme Court allowed judges to refuse same sex ceremonies. If Obergefell were overturned, the Respect for Marriage Act would preserve federal protections while allowing states to deny recognition.

Prepared by Lauren Mitchell and reviewed by editorial team.