Gay marriage trial to begin in the US

California case has potential to shape laws across nation

SAN FRANCISCO: America's debate over same-sex marriage will take center stage in a California courtroom today at a closely watched federal trial that could ultimately become the landmark case that determines whether homosexual Americans have a right to marry.

At issue in the trial starting today in San Francisco is whether the Proposition 8 gay marriage ban approved by California voters in November 2008 is legal.