The wait is over! U.S. District Judge Robert Hinkle of Tallahassee ordered on Thursday clerks of court across Florida should issue marriage licenses to same-sex couples next week. This ends weeks of confusion if marriage licenses would just be issued in Washington County or statewide.

Judge Hinkle wrote the following in regards to his decision:

Reasonable people can debate whether the ruling in this case was correct and who it binds. . . There should be no debate, however, on the question whether a clerk of court may follow the ruling, even for marriage-license applicants who are not parties to this case.

Judge Hinkle also warned there would be strict consequences for clerks of court who do not comply with his ruling. He said they should note those who do not comply will face lawsuits and legal fees.

Some clerks of court are excited to issue same-sex marriage certificates on Tuesday and are even extending their hours to accommodate the rush of couples who have been waiting to get married. Couples are encouraged to check with their clerk of court to find out more information.

Attorney General Pam Bondi issued a statement about the decision. Even though her office has been against same-sex marriage she said they would not “stand in the way as clerks of court determine how to proceed.”

Governor Rick Scott has not comment publicly about the judges order. He has been known to oppose same-sex marriages as well. Ironically his second inauguration will take place on Tuesday which is the same day gay Floridians are allowed to get married.

You can read our previous stories on gay marriage in Florida here.