Gay marriage recognition for man with cancer remains on hold

GRAND RAPIDS – A western Michigan man stricken with cancer has failed to persuade a judge to order the state to recognize his New York same-sex marriage.

Federal Judge Gordon Quist said Tuesday he’s not “unsympathetic” to Bruce Morgan’s health. But he says the case, filed last June, must remain on hold until the U.S. Supreme Court decides whether states must recognize same-sex marriages performed in other states.

Attorneys representing Gov. Rick Snyder agree with the judge. The Supreme Court is hearing arguments next week.

Morgan and Brian Merucci live in the Grand Rapids area. Morgan’s cancer is progressing, and they want their marriage recognized so they can make medical decisions for each other.

Their attorney, Stephanie Myott, says Morgan “may not have much time left.”