Barronelle Stutzman, a florist in Washington, refused to provide flower arrangements for Robert Ingersoll and Curt Freed’s wedding. Stutzman cited her “relationship with Jesus Christ” as her reason for denying service to the gay couple.
On Feb. 18, Superior Court Judge Alex Ekstrom ruled that Stutzman’s failure to provide service to a gay couple was a violation of Washington’s Law Against Discrimination and the Consumer Protection Act.
Ekstrom stated that the florist is required to provide same-sex couples with the same service as heterosexual couples.
The case began two years ago, when Attorney General Bob Ferguson sued Stultzman after she denied the gay couple service based on her religious beliefs.
The gay couple Stultzman refused to serve is now able to collect money for damages and legal fees from her business, Arlene’s Flowers and Gifts. The couple is represented by the American Civil Liberties Union and the state of Washington.
According to reports, the case could also have an effect on Stultzman’s personal finances. Fines of up to $2,000 can be issued each time the law is violated.
Although Ingersoll had been a customer at Stultzman’s store before, she stated that when he asked her to provide flowers for his wedding two years ago, she politely declined.