“Missouri’s future will be one of inclusion, not exclusion,” Koster said at the time.

In Wednesday’s case, Koster appealed the ruling to the Missouri Supreme Court, saying that the case “must be presented to and resolved by the state’s highest court.”

But in the meantime, Koster said he would not seek a stay. “Following decisions in Idaho and Alaska, the United States Supreme Court has refused to grant stays on identical facts,” he said.

The prospect of an appeal did little to dampen the excitement associated with Burlison’s ruling.

“This is a positive move forward for loving same-sex couples in the city of St. Louis,” said Jeffrey Mittman, executive director of the American Civil Liberties Union of Missouri. “It is also a win for families throughout Missouri as another discriminatory obstacle is lowered.”

The ruling specifically grants the St. Louis Recorder of Deeds the authority to issue marriage licenses.

But some officials in other Missouri counties are seeking further direction.

Jim Doughty, the assistant recorder of deeds for St. Charles County, said no licenses would be issued there until further review from legal counsel.