Breaking, from the Chicago Sun-Times:
SPRINGFIELD-Illinois moved a step closer Thursday to becoming the 10th state to allow gay and lesbian couples to marry as the state Senate approved legalizing gay marriage in a vote one backer described as "one for the history books."
"It is time Illinois get rid of its second-class status for a segment of our residents and allow everyone the opportunity to reap the emotional, social and economic benefits and obligations of marriage," said state Sen. Heather Steans (D-Chicago), the bill’s chief Senate sponsor.
Steans’ legislation passed the Senate 34-21 vote, with two present votes, and now moves to the House.
After a tearful closing statement by Steans, applause erupted in the chamber the moment the roll call surpassed the necessary 30 votes it needed to move to the House.
