On Monday, The Illinois Senate passed a bill, 30-27, to ban discrimination against gays and lesbians in the areas of housing and employment. The bill as written would add "sexual orientation" to existing law banning discrimination in matters of housing, lending and employment. The Illinois House passed the bill by a 65-51 vote on Tuesday, and Governor Rod Blagojevich vowed to sign the bill when it is presented to him. As expected, gay rights activists have hailed the bill as an important step in affording gays and lesbians equal protection, while foes of the bill have intimated passage is the first step in a slippery slope leading to state recognition of a broader agenda for gays and lesbians, such as recognition of same sex civil unions or marriages. Given the Governor's support, it's clear this bill will become law. Given the narrow way the bill is written (providing equal protection rather than creating a special status for sexual orientation), there's a good possibility the law could survive a legal challenge by foes. As such, it's a good bet this issue will shape a number of upcoming state elections. Stay tuned...
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