Illinois is on its way to becoming the first state in the Midwest to grant federal protections to same-sex couples. An educational meeting sponsored by Equality Illinois, Chicago NOW, and Lambda Legal on The Religious Freedom and Civil Union Act ( HB1826 ) was held Nov 13 at the Howard Brown Health Center, 4025 N. Sheridan Rd.
The bill, introduced by Rep. Greg Harris in February, needs 60 votes in the House and 30 in the Senate in order to secure passage. 'We are very close to having the votes we need,' said Harris, who attended the meeting. 'Every single [ representative ] said they understand what is at stake.'
Unlike other civil union bills introduced around the country, HB 1826 makes very clear that religious institutions will not be required to solemnize or officially recognize civil unions for same-sex couples. The bill is specifically for legal purposes to ensure that couples may be granted some of the fundamental provisions of marriage such as: medical decision-making, hospital visitation for partners, the right to control and dispose of remains, inheritance rights and domestic-violence protections.
HB 1826 is unique in that it is not limited to same-sex couples. 'This bill takes sex out of the picture and treats people equally,' said Jim Madigan, a staff attorney from Lambda Legal. 'It is about sameness.'
Madigan described the importance of the bill's gender neutrality as a winning argument which would assist transgender individuals and senior citizens.
Transgender people who are currently married and wish to transition would be able to secure the same protections of marriage with their partner with a civil union. Senior citizens who are not married and wish to officiate a relationship could obtain a civil union with their partner and still receive the federal benefits of their senior status.
While not granting the more than 1,000 federal benefits of marriage, the Illinois Civil Union bill would recognize the rights and benefits of same-sex couples who have received legal protections from other states.
HB 1826 awaits a vote on the House floor before heading to the Senate.
