Defense of Marriage Act will be defended by House-appointed lawyer, John Boehner says

By David G. Savage, Washington Bureau
Los Angeles Times

Reporting from Washington —

House Speaker John Boehner (R-Ohio) said Friday that that he and other House leaders plan to appoint a lawyer to defend in court the 1996 law that says the federal government will not recognize gay marriages or give federal benefits to gay couples.

"It is regrettable that the Obama administration has opened this divisive issue at a time when Americans want their leaders to focus on jobs and the challenges facing our economy," Boehner said. "The constitutionality of this law should be determined by the courts — not by the president unilaterally — and this action by the House will ensure the matter is addressed in a manner consistent with our Constitution."

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