U.S. District Judge Candy Dale has ruled Idaho’s ban on same-sex marriage unconstitutional, overturning it. The court’s order takes effect at 9 a.m. on May 16; you can read the judge’s 57-page decision here. “The court’s ruling is a victory not only for the courageous couples who brought this case, but for everyone who cares about freedom and fairness,” said Deborah Ferguson, attorney for the four same-sex couples who sued.

Idaho Gov. Butch Otter, who defended the ban, vowed to appeal. “In 2006, the people of Idaho exercised their fundamental right, reaffirming that marriage is the union of a man and a woman,” Otter said. “Today’s decision, while disappointing, is a small setback in a long-term battle that will end at the U.S. Supreme Court.  I am firmly committed to upholding the will of the people and defending our Constitution.”