Illinois House passes civil unions for gay and lesbian coupl

[frigidmagi]

Suntimes

[quote]Gays and lesbians scored a dramatic victory Tuesday when the Illinois House voted to legalize civil unions in a move that could eventually grant gay partners some of the same spousal rights as married heterosexual couples.

The historic vote capped a busy legislative day that included House approval of a pension package affecting future city cops and firefighters. That bill could blow a more than $500 million hole in the city budget by 2015 — legislation condemned by Mayor Daley.

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In an historic vote on Tuesday, the Illinois House passed legislation legalizing civil unions for gays and lesbians.
(John J. Kim/Sun-Times)


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Editorial: Vote on right side of history

HOW CIVIL UNIONS WOULD WORK
Gays and lesbians or heterosexual couples in civil unions could:
* Make health-care decisions affecting their partners

* Decide how to dispose of a deceased partner's remains

* Gain new standing in probate law and laws relating to estate succession, purchase and distribution of property

* Gain accident and health insurance protections tied to spouses

The 61-52 civil union vote now passes on to the Senate an issue pushed by gay-rights advocates and Gov. Quinn but opposed by religious leaders such as Cardinal George. A vote is expected in the Senate on Wednesday with signs pointing toward likely passage.

“We have a chance today to make Illinois a more fair state, a more just state and a state which treats all of its citizens equally under the law,â€