Illinois gay and lesbian couples received a Valentine’s Day gift from the Illinois Senate. The Democrat-led Senate passed legislation, in a 34-21-2 vote, this afternoon that would allow same-sex marriages in Illinois, according to Huffington Post.
The gay marriage bill now goes to the House.
If it is signed into law, marriage officially would be changed in state law from an act between a man and a woman to two people. The legislation says nothing in the proposed law would force a religious denomination or minster to “solemnize any marriage,” according to the Chicago Tribune.
If the bill is also approved by the state House of Representatives, Illinois will join Washington, D.C. and nine other U.S. marriage equality states, according to the Huffington Post. Illinois has had civil unions available for same-sex couples since June 2011.
Marriage promotes stable families, safeguards the interests of children and rewards committed relationships. Recognizing same-sex marriages demonstrates respect for personal freedoms and keeps government out of the intimate affairs of citizens. More people in same-sex relationships are adopting or giving birth to children; this provides the security of a legal commitment for those children. It's the fair thing to do. -- Chicago Tribune 2/18/13
truer words were never typed.
Sully, you are the last person who should be talking about being offensive.
Sully, unlike yourself, i sometimes agree with those who i typically disagree with or give them credit for making a good point. You may want to re-read that post again before you spew.
No. no evidence, just a hunch based on how the ACLU operates and how it seems as though we have been catering to Muslims since 9/11. And hey, take it with a grain of salt...ask anyone of these people on here and they will tell you that i am part of the great unwashed, uneducated, masses!
You think you are the only person who has lost people to tragedy? Cry me a river you whining little person" THAT is insensitive and offensive. Yes, many others have suffered loss; does that mean we don't give consideration to those who mention it?
Steve, can you show me where i said that i condone the coverups of the Catholic church? No, you can't because i don't. It's a travesty. I have friends who have left the church because of that and i don't blame them a bit. Criticize me for what i say, not the things you assume i believe in.