blog home gay marriage bill illinois - Chicago Illinois Family Law Blog

gay marriage bill illinois - Chicago Illinois Family Law Blog

Will Illinois Legalize Gay Marriage in January?

By Nottage and Ward on January 2, 2013

The passing of the Illinois civil union law was a major step towards marriage equality for same-sex couples, and though the state has not reached the point of true equality just yet, it does seem to be significantly closer. According to USA Today, Illinois lawmakers may pass a bill legalizing gay marriage to the Governor’s desk as early as January, when the General Assembly reconvenes.

As dedicated civil union lawyers in Chicago at Nottage and Ward, we applaud the efforts of Representative Greg Harris and Senator Heather Steans, who have spearheaded the push towards the legalization of same-sex marriage in the legislature. While both decline to comment on the status of roll-call votes in each chamber, Steans claims that they are closer to “being able to get it done.” And if the trend in the nation is any indication, it seems even more likely that it will, in fact, get done. Not only did President Obama speak in favor of legalizing gay marriage, but four states have legalized gay marriage or voted down bans on it since the November election.

Read more…

Illinois May See Conflicting Legislation on the Ballot Regarding Same-Sex Marriage

By Nottage and Ward on December 7, 2012

It did not take long for the inadequacies of the Illinois civil union law to garner support for true equality in the form of same-sex marriage. Now, during the Illinois legislature’s two-week veto session, lawmakers have the opportunity to push a gay marriage bill to be added onto a statewide ballot. According to BallotNews.org, such a push may happen as soon as this week, the first week of December.

Supporters backing the approval of such a bill include state Representative George Harris and Equality Illinois director of public policy, Randy Hannig. Both Harris and Hannig believe that statewide and nationwide support for same-sex marriage has grown in the past two years since the Illinois civil union law passed. In fact, the recent election included four states which supported same-sex ballot issues, such as the legalization of gay marriage and the defeat of measures banning gay marriage. This demonstrates a shift in the nation’s attitudes about same-sex marriage. But a proposal for the legalization of gay marriage is not the only legislation that may end up on the ballot.

Read more…

Little Black Pearl The Business of ArtWe are proud sponsors of Little Black Pearl Art and Design Center.

To learn more, click here.

Friends of the Chicago RiverProud Member of Friends of the Chicago River.

To learn more, click here.

Client Reviews

Five Stars5 Leslie has been the strongest representation I could ask for

Leslie has been the strongest representation I could ask for in a very complicated, emotional matter. She has continuously looked out for my best interest and the best interest of my son. She is always prompt in getting back to me and in keeping me well informed about my case.
-

Read More Client Reviews

Avvo Top Contributor Family Law - Jeffrey Knipmeyer
Avvo Top Contributor Divorce Law - Jeffrey Knipmeyer