Expected Suprememe Court Ruling on Prop. 8 and DOMA Next Week

The Supreme Court is expected to rule on Prop. 8 and the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) by the end of their term next week.

Prop 8 bans same-sex marriage in California; it was approved by voters in 2008 by 52 percent of the vote. It was struck down by a federal judge and if the Supreme Court upholds that decision, same-sex marriage could begin again in California. Justices could also use the case to legalize same-sex marriage across the country.

The High Court could also issue a ruling on the federal Defense of Marriage Act. It's a federal law that defines marriage as being only between a man and a woman. The law prevents married gay couples from receiving a number of federal benefits.