By CHRISTOPHER WILLS
– The Associated Press
Out of house news story
SPRINGFIELD – Illinois lawmakers took a step toward offering legal recognition to gay couples Tuesday when the House narrowly voted to create civil unions that would carry some of the benefits and obligations of marriage.
Supporters presented it as an issue of basic fairness. Opponents argued it moves Illinois closer to legalizing same-sex marriages.
Democrats broke into applause after the 61-52 vote was final, giving the bill’s sponsor a standing ovation.
“It’s a matter of fairness. It’s a matter of respect. It’s a matter of equality,” said the sponsor, Rep. Greg Harris, D-Chicago.
State Reps. Robert Pritchard, R-Hinckley, and Ron Wait, R-Belvidere, voted against the measure, according to a vote total posted on the Illinois Legislature’s website. Both of their respective legislative districts include parts of DeKalb County.
Pritchard, who described the debate on the House floor Tuesday as thoughtful and emotional, said the issue comes down to what people feel are impacts on religious values. Click here to continue reading.
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