AG Holder: Feds Will Recognize Mich. Gay Marriages

U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder has extended federal marriage recognition to the more than 300 gay couples that wed in Michigan last weekend.

"The governor of Michigan has made clear that the marriages that took place on Saturday were lawful and valid when entered into, although Michigan will not extend state rights and benefits tied to these marriages pending further legal proceedings," he said.

"For purposes of federal law…these Michigan couples will not be asked to wait for further resolution in the courts before they may seek federal benefits to which they are entitled," Holder added.

Friday's announcement from comes after the state's governor said Michigan would not recognize the marriages.

Holder's decision will extend federal marriage benefits to those couples, like jointly filing federal taxes and Social Security benefits.

Meanwhile, a federal appeals court has put gay marriage in Michigan on hold, while the state appeals a judge's ruling to overturn a constitutional ban on same-sex marriage. 

Currently, 17 states and Washington, D.C., issue licenses for same-sex marriages.