On Tuesday, Iowa's Supreme Court will begin hearing arguments to challenge the state's ban on same sex marriage.

Like many people, Karen Mudd of Sioux Falls will be closely watching the case before the Iowa Supreme Court. But for her, there could be personal implications. She's been with her partner for ten years, but can't marry because South Dakota doesn't recognize same-sex marriage.

"What's happening in Iowa gives us hope that same-sex couples like us might someday have the legal protections and the security and the dignity that goes with marriage," said Mudd.

It's exciting for Mudd that Iowa might become the first midwest state to legalize gay marriage. Massachusetts became the first state to do so and in November, Connecticut also approved gay marriage.

The debate on same sex marriage has continued across the country. In California, the Supreme Court approved putting proposition eight on the ballot, which when later approved by voters, overturned gay marriage. 

As Iowa's Supreme Court prepares to hear arguments this week, Mudd hopes Iowa will soon make history. She said, "When we see our neighbors taking a stand for fairness, it gives us inspiration that we may move towards more fair minded policies here in South Dakota."

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