Michigan: $40K for Experts in Gay Marriage Trial

The state of Michigan says it has spent $40,000 on witnesses who testified as experts at a recent trial on same-sex marriage.

Spokeswoman Joy Yearout of the attorney general's office tells The Associated Press that additional bills are expected. The state hired conservative social scientists and economists from outside the state to defend Michigan's ban on gay marriage.

Federal Judge Bernard Friedman described their testimony as "largely" or "entirely" unbelievable. He says their opinions of the well-being of children raised by same-sex couples are on the "fringe."

Friedman struck down Michigan's ban on gay marriage Friday. Many same-sex couples were married Saturday in four counties before a higher court suspended the decision. More action by the appeals court is expected this week.