Lawmakers Introduce Bill to Legalize Gay Marriage in Illinois

By Nottage and Ward on February 16, 2012

It has been almost one year since the civil union law went into effect in Illinois and now some lawmakers feel it is time to take the next step and authorize same-sex marriages, according to The Chicago Tribune.

Last week, three legislators filed a bill, HB5170, entitled the “Religious Freedom and Marriage Fairness Act,” which would remove the explicit prohibition of same-sex marriages from state law and make marriage legally available to gay couples. In addition, the new measure would allow religious groups to make their own decisions concerning the types of marriages they perform. One of the bill’s sponsors is not sure whether the Legislature will give it serious consideration, but, if trends across the country are any indication, Illinois may consider same-sex marriages sooner rather than later.

Last year, New York legalized same-sex marriages, and, within the last month, the State of Washington did the same and the California ban on gay marriages was struck down by an appeals court. It is an election year, and so legislators may be less than enthusiastic about declaring their support for the bill; however, a vote on the new measure may find its way onto the Legislator’s docket before new lawmakers are seated. The civil union law was passed during the same period.

It is too early to tell how long this bill will need to simmer before a decision is made, but Illinois seems to be ready for the next step. Until then, the only legal option available is a civil union. If you are considering entering into an Illinois civil union or just have questions, the knowledgeable civil union attorneys in Chicago at Nottage and Ward can help. Call us today at (312) 332-2915 to learn more.