The United States government says it will give full federal backing to more than 1000 same-sex marriages in Utah that the state refuses to recognise.
Attorney-General Eric Holder says gay and lesbian couples who had married in Utah would be eligible for federal benefits enjoyed by other couples.
A federal judge overturned a state law banning same-sex marriage in December.
The Supreme Court on Monday temporarily blocked any further same-sex marriages in Utah after the state filed an emergency request to stay the judge's ruling.
About 1300 marriage licences for same-sex couples were issued before Governor Gary Herbert instructed state officials not to recognise such marriages.