Judicial panel named to hear Prop 8 appeal

SAN FRANCISCO Starting next week, Judges Stephen Reinhardt, Michael Daly Hawkins and Randy Smith will hear arguments concerning Proposition 8, the voter-approved amendment to the state constitution prohibiting gay marriage.

A district court judge has already ruled it unconstitutional, but that ruling is on hold, pending the appeals panel's decision.

Reinhardt, a Los Angeles resident, was appointed by President Jimmy Carter. Hawkins, of Arizona, was appointed by President Bill Clinton. Smith lives in Idaho and was appointed by President George W. Bush.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.