Only Supremes can settle the issue

NEW YORK — Supporters of gay marriage already are anticipating a return trip to the Supreme Court in a few years, sensing that no other option but a broader court ruling will legalize same-sex unions in all 50 states.

Wednesday’s twin rulings from the high court will extend federal recognition to same-sex marriages in the states where they are legal, and will add California — the most populous state — to the 12 others in that category. But the court’s rulings have no direct effect on the constitutional amendments in 29 states that limit marriage to heterosexual couples.

“Eventually this will have to be settled by the Supreme Court,” said Fred Sainz of the Human Rights Campaign, a national gayrights group.