Illinois Gov. Pat Quinn to sign civil unions bill today

[davidinalameda]

Gov. Pat Quinn this afternoon is scheduled to sign into law a measure that will legalize civil unions for same-sex couples for the first time in Illinois.
The measure, approved last month during the General Assembly's lame-duck session, would let gays and lesbians use civil unions as a way to enjoy several of the same rights as people who are married, ranging from sharing a nursing home room to being involved in dramatic end-of-life decisions.

The law takes effect June 1 once signed. It also applies to heterosexual couples, signifying a step short of marriage.

The bill signing ceremony is scheduled for late afternoon at the Chicago Cultural Center. Also expected to attend is Rep. Greg Harris, D-Chicago, the measure's House sponsor who is openly gay.

http://newsblogs.chicagotribune.com/clout_st/2011/01/illinois-gov-pat-quinn-to-sign-civil-unions-bill-today.html

[jaxx]

1. Yay for Illinois!

This is a great bill and covers everyone. We may be broke, but we're hell bent for equality.

[Oceansaway]

2. wooooohoooooo !!...nt

[ThatsMyBarack]

3. Watching this on local TV news now!

Just wish David Smith of the "Illinois Family Group" would STFU!

[RetiredTrotskyite]

4. Great To See This Happen...

My congratulations to all of the happy couples in Illinois. Now hopefully the haters won't start whining and trying to get this overturned.