Politics & Government

Illinois Lawmakers Pass Same-Sex Marriage

The Illinois House of Representatives passed same-sex marriage in a 61-54 vote.

The Illinois House of Representatives narrowly approved same-sex marriage Tuesday, with a 61-54 vote, according to an article by NBC Chicago. If approved by the Senate, Illinois would become the 15th state to allow same-sex marriage. 

The votes were enough to send the bill back to the Senate for approval, which came quickly in a 32-21 vote. The bill now heads to Gov. Pat Quinn, who has said he will sign it.

The votes come less than a month after supporters rallied in Springfield for marriage equality

“This bill will give them a better future,” said Rep. Greg Harris (D-Chicago) said of the bill, according to the Sun-Times. “It’ll help families to show their love and commitment to each other and give all families a chance to live as full and equal citizens in the greatest country on the face of the earth.”

How local representatives voted:

  • Rep. Tom Cross (R-Oswego): Yes
  • Rep. Larry Walsh Jr. (D-Joliet): Yes
  • Rep. Emily McAsey (D-Lockport): Yes
  • Rep. Natalie Manley (D-Joliet): Yes
  • Sen. Linda Holmes (D-Aurora): Yes
  • Sen. Jennifer Bertino-Tarrant (D-Shorewood): Yes
See how other Representatives voted here.
Click here for the Senate roll call.


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