Illinois gay marriage supporters look to next session

State legislators are delaying a vote to legalize gay marriage until the new session

Published January 4, 2013 1:58PM (EST)

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) — Marriage-equality supporters are looking to the new legislative session as their next best hope for Illinois to legalize same-sex marriage.

Supporters had hoped lawmakers would act before the lame-duck session ends Jan. 9.

A Senate committee voted in favor of a measure to allow gay marriage Thursday. But Senate Democrats delayed a floor vote because three supporters needed for passage were absent.

Sen. Heather Steans (STAYNZ), the bill's sponsor, said a full Senate vote is possible Tuesday. But Senate President John Cullerton said it might be a few weeks.

Opponents, including a group of religious leaders, say the bill is an attack on their religious beliefs.


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