DENVER — The Colorado Court of Appeals says a suburban Denver baker who wouldn’t make a wedding cake for a same-sex couple cannot cite his religious beliefs because it would lead to discrimination.
The court ruled Thursday in a case that has helped ignite a passionate debate between gay rights supporters and religious freedom advocates. Gay couples have won similar cases in other states.
Jack Phillips, owner of Masterpiece Cakeshop, declined to make a cake for Charlie Craig and David Mullins in 2012.
Phillips’ attorneys have said they would consider appealing up to the U.S. Supreme Court. They said there are bound to be more cases where businesses’ religious convictions clash with gay rights after same-sex marriage was legalized nationwide.
Phillips faces fines if he refuses to make wedding cakes for gay couples.
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