Ed. Note: This update on the civil unions bill in Illinois is from Nathan Schackow, an HRC volunteer leader in Chicago
As of late Friday afternoon Senate Bill 1716, the Religious Freedom Protection and Civil Union Act, is now ready to move forward in the Illinois House.
The status of the bill is “Third Reading” at the moment, meaning that the bill will be read for a third time before the full House, the sponsor will explain the bill, and members will then be allowed to ask questions. After the debate comes to a close, the bill is voted on.
Rep. Greg Harris, the chief sponsor of the civil union bill, has stated that the bill is ready and he will call the bill if he feels he has the votes needed for it to pass. The House is now in recess and Rep. Harris is meeting with other representatives to discuss the bill. If the bill passes the House, it will go to the Senate for a vote of concurrence.
Both chambers of the Illinois General Assembly could stay in session into the evening on Friday and are expected to have a prolonged week before the beginning of summer recess.
Illinois Governor Pat Quinn has indicated that he supports the bill and is willing to sign it if it reaches his desk.
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