Despite the best efforts of legislative sponsors, allied organizations and concerned individuals, the Illinois Senate was unable to hold a final vote on legislation that approves the freedom to marry for same-sex couples in Illinois. Supporters of the legislation were faced with the absence of -- at least -- two supportive Senators. The following statement on this development can be attributed to John Knight, LGBT project director for the ACLU of Illinois:

"We are disappointed that the absence of some senators kept the legislation approving the freedom to marry from moving forward today. The set-back is only, however, temporary. Whether next week, next month, this spring or in the months ahead, freedom to marry for same-sex couples will be won in the Illinois General Assembly or in the courts. We are committed to continuing to work so that all couples can have the dignity and security of marriage."