Crains Chicago Business published an article about the recent announcement from Illinois legislators who plan to push for a vote for the freedom to marry for same-sex couples in early January. The ACLU of Illinois has advocated for full marriage rights for same-sex couples in Illinois, and has represented nine couples in a court case against the Cook County Clerk. Whether through litigation or legislation, the ACLU of Illinois believes that the time for marriage is now. Crains spoke with the bill's sponsor, State Representative Greg Harris:

"The timing is right for us to push this," said Mr. Harris, who spoke with Ms. Steans in a joint conference call today. Some lawmakers who had been opposed now are taking a second look, Mr. Harris said, in view of the Election Day decision by voters in Maine, Maryland and Washington state. "Folks are seeing what's going on around the country."

Read the whole thing.

Today, the chief sponsors of legislation to approve the freedom to marry for same sex couples in the Illinois House and Illinois Senate said that they will push for a vote on the measure in early January. State Representative Greg Harris and State Senator Heather Steans said today they believe the Illinois General Assembly is ready to add Illinois to the list of states that recognizes the love and commitment of all couples, including same sex couples.

The following can be attributed to Edwin C. Yohnka, Director of the Communications and Public Policy at the ACLU of Illinois:

"We look forward to the day when all couples, including same sex couples, enjoy the freedom to marry in Illinois. We stand ready to work tirelessly with the courageous legislative leaders who want to make that a reality during the legislative session in early January. The time is now."