Illinois Governor Pat Quinn has
reiterated his support for gay marriage.
Appearing on the WBEZ radio, Quinn said
he supports legalizing the institution in Illinois.
Illinois state Representative Greg
Harris, who is openly gay, filed a bill in the spring which would
legalize such unions. The earliest lawmakers could take a vote on it
is during the upcoming fall session.
“I do favor marriage equality. When
that bill comes before the legislature I hope it passes and if it
gets to my desk, I'll sign it,” said Quinn.
Quinn came out in favor of marriage
equality in May, following President Barack Obama's endorsement.
The democrat signed a law establishing
civil unions for gay and lesbian couples in Illinois last year.
Supporters have also filed a lawsuit in
federal court challenging the state's ban on equal marriage rights
for gay couples.
(Related: Calls
for Illinois Judge Sophia Hall to recuse herself from gay marriage
case.)