Illinois OKs Civil Unions for Same-Sex--and Opposite-Sex--Couples
Following the lead of five other states that have already approved some form of recognized same-sex relationships, lawmakers in Illinois today approved a bill to provide for same-sex—and opposite-sex—civil unions.
The Illinois Religious Freedom Protection and Civil Union Act approved today by the state senate says civil unions will be recognized that provide “the obligations, responsibilities, protections, and benefits afforded or recognized by the law of Illinois to spouses,” reports CNN.
USA Today’s On Deadline blog provides a link to the legislation.
The bill passed by a 32-24 vote in the Senate today after a 61-52 tally in favor yesterday in the state House of Representatives, the Bolingbrook Sun reports.
Related coverage:
ABAJournal.com: “Straight Couple Suing for Civil Union Rather Than Marriage”
