A Utah judge has reversed his decision to take away a baby from a lesbian couple.
Judge Scott Johansen signed an order allowing the 9-month-old baby to live with foster parents April Hoagland, 34, and Beckie Peirce, 38. The announcement comes on Friday, several days after the judge recieved widespread backlash for his initial decision.
The married couple told CBS News on Tuesday that he had ignored pleas from the baby's biological mother to allow them custody. They were concerned that the judge's decision was fueled by his religious beliefs.
Judge Johansen originally said that research proves children are better off with homosexual parents. This was disputed by the American Psychological Association who said no scientific research exists, the Associated Press reports.
The American Civil Liberties Union, Anti-Defamation League and Utah Division of Child and Family Services officials all spoke out against the ruling. Utah Governor Gary Herbert, a Republican, also criticised the judges initial ruling.
"He may not like the law, but he should follow the law. We don't want to have activism on the bench in any way, shape or form," Governor Herbert announced during a Thursday news conference.
The foster parents reportedly plan to adopt the child in the future.
