Last November 19, ministers from across Tennessee and an organization representing more than 250 ministers filed a petition with the Tennessee Department of Health, arguing that the department unconstitutionally created the same-sex Certificate of Marriage that they must sign if the marriages they solemnize will be honored by the state.

By letter dated February 14, the department responded by saying it would not change the certificate and that the petitioners were authorized to proceed with a lawsuit against the state.  

David Fowler, counsel for the pastors, said his clients were looking forward to their day in court and that the lawsuit would be filed soon.