DENTON – The Denton County Clerk says a computer systems issue kept her from issuing same-sex couples marriage licenses Friday, after the U.S. Supreme Court ruled the state must allow gay couples to marry.
Outside Clerk Juli Luke's office Friday afternoon, there were no lines of couples.
Instead, a sign that explained why: Due to issues with the office's computer programs that kept it from changing the language written on the paperwork for marriage, the clerk would not issue any same sex licenses.
Several in the county's LGBTQ community felt the timing of the computer system issues was suspicious, but the clerk insisted she understands the law and aims to start issuing updated licenses Monday.
"Everyone needs to take a chill pill here," said Denton County Judge Mary Horn.
She came to the clerk's defense, and is also giving voice to judges who disagree with the ruling and won't perform any same sex ceremonies.
"I believe we still have religious liberties in this country, and certainly in the State of Texas," she said. "So I think as long as we can respect each other's point of views, this will all work out."
Even with disagreements and delays, that didn't change the final ruling for Denton families, or their desire to celebrate.
Hundreds gathered at the Square Friday night, including Kennisha Payne and Jennifer Monje, who married in New Mexico two years ago.
"We are so blessed that Texas has finally recognized it," Monje said. "We are overjoyed."
They have kids, and now, a sense of victory and relief.
"If there are any legal or medical issues, we're covered," Payne said. "And I don't have to fight for the rights of any other couple."
And while they say they're already a family at home, being recognized as a family in their home state means everything.
