California’s attorney general is urging the state’s high court to take up lawsuits challenging a recently approved constitutional amendment that bans same-sex marriage in the state.

In his reply to four lawsuits filed against the measure, known as Proposition 8, Attorney General Jerry Brown on Monday called on the California Supreme Court to review the measure’s constitutionality.

“The profound importance of the issues raised by Proposition 8 warrants that this matter be reviewed and promptly resolved by the California Supreme Court,” Brown said.

Brown argued that the Supreme Court should handle the petitions rather than lower courts, where lawsuits typically begin, to “ensure uniformity of decision, finality and certainty for the citizens of California”

“There is significant public interest in prompt resolution of the legality of Proposition 8,” he said. “The (California Supreme) Court can provide certainty and finality in this matter.”

Brown also said he opposes a stay on the measure, arguing that it would increase uncertainty for marriages performed in California.

The brief says that “public interest would be best served not by issuing a temporary stay, but by an expedited resolution of the important issues raised by the petitions.”

The brief also reiterates Brown’s opinion that the 18,000 gay couples who wed in California still have valid marriages.

Four separate lawsuits were filed the California Supreme Court following the passage of Proposition 8 on Election Day.

Read the full story from the Washington Blade.