DC gay marriage law may take effect March 2

Gay couples will likely be able to apply March 2 for marriage licenses in the nation’s capital.

That’s the day the city projects a bill it passed legalizing same-sex marriage will go into effect.

The district’s City Council passed a bill last month. But the bill, which has been signed by the mayor, didn’t go into effect immediately. Congress oversees the district’s laws, and the bill must pass a period of 30-day review by Congress.

The City Council determined the bill’s projected effective date by looking at Congress’ calendar, but the date could change if Congress adjusts its schedule.

But couples won’t be able to marry March 2. The district has a waiting period, so three full business days must pass after an application before a license is issued.