Cook County Clerk David Orr: Gay marriage long overdue in Illinois

As the clerk in Illinois' most populous county, I urge all legislators to support the Religious Freedom and Marriage Fairness Act sponsored by Representative Greg Harris and Senator Heather Steans. This measure will provide all committed couples with the same legal protections under Illinois law - a step that is long overdue. Illinois should join the growing ranks of states which already afford marriage rights to all couples. I do not believe that government should be in the business of deciding whose love is valid. As I have said for decades, neither the state nor religious institutions should support discriminatory practices. I look forward to quick passage, and to issuing marriage licenses in 2013 to all couples who wish to marry - whether they are gay or straight. David Orr Cook County Clerk