RICHMOND, Va. (AP) — Virginia Gov. Terry McAuliffe is sending notice to local social services divisions that married gay couples can now adopt children.

McAuliffe’s office announced Friday that it was formally recognizing that same-sex couples can legally adopt.

The U.S. Supreme Court effectively legalized gay marriage in Virginia Monday, prompting several gay couples to get married around the state. McAuliffe said he hopes the legalization of gay marriage will lead to more children finding loving families.

The Democratic governor also planned to officiate a gay wedding ceremony in northern Virginia Friday.

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