WASHINGTON - Today the District Court for Polk County, Iowa, rendered a decision in Varnum v. Brien, concluding that same-sex couples have a constitutional right to equality in marriage. Lambda Legal was lead counsel for the plaintiffs, Iowa couples who were denied marriage licenses.

"Today's decision recognizes that all families deserve equal protection and status," said Human Rights Campaign President Joe Solmonese. "We commend Lambda Legal and the plaintiffs for their courage in fighting for equality," he added.

The state has already indicated that it will appeal the case.

For more information, please visit Lambda Legal at http://www.lambdalegal.org/iowa-marriage-win-feature.html.

The Human Rights Campaign is America's largest civil rights organization working to achieve gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender equality. By inspiring and engaging all Americans, HRC strives to end discrimination against GLBT citizens and realize a nation that achieves fundamental fairness and equality for all.