FORT SMITH (KFSM) -- The Supreme Court ruling allowing gay marriage in every state in the country not only means same sex couples can legally be married -- they can now legally get federal and state benefits.
"Love won today -- and that speaks volumes on so many different levels for so many different people,” Jennifer Seaton-Rambo said.
Kristin and Jennifer Seaton-Rambo met five years ago in Fayetteville.
On May 10 of last year they were the first same-sex couple to get a marriage license in Arkansas. They had a ceremony with their family on October 4.
But the decision on Friday (June 26) from the highest court in the nation will mark another day for them to remember.
"It’s been a bunch of baby steps that have meant so much to both of us -- this is a huge step -- we're thrilled,” Jennifer said.
They said some of the benefits they can enjoy now are healthcare coverage, social security, state and federal tax filings and hospital visitation rights. But what they're looking forward to the most is expanding their family.
"It's kind of heartbreaking when we had been researching and seeing a lot of sperm banks only accepted -- requirements were husband and wife,” they said.
The couple said the decision goes beyond the legal benefits they and other same-sex couples will receive.
“It'll aid in the process of the eliminating the cycle of hate, and it will promote the process of accepting one another,” Jennifer said.
The couple also said they're in the process of starting a small business, and that the ruling will help make that process easier.