SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) – The House sponsor of legislation that would make Illinois the next state to legalize same-sex marriage is urging his colleagues to support the bill as a matter of treating all Illinois citizens equally.
Democratic Rep. Greg Harris of Chicago addressed House members Tuesday on the floor before the bill was to be called for a vote.
The bill passed the Senate earlier in the year, but wasn’t called for a House vote. Harris says he didn’t have the votes then.
Advocates’ momentum has been building since then, particularly with a fierce campaign, union support and lobbying from House Speaker Michael Madigan.
Opponents say marriage should remain between a man and woman. Some have vowed to line up primary challengers to those who vote in favor.
The bill is SB10.
