Supporters of same-sex marriage in Illinois have been pushing hard for legalization for the better part of a year.
The Senate passed a same-sex marriage bill on Valentine's Day, but it's had a tougher go in the House – until now. On Tuesday, the measure squeaked through the House on a narrow vote.
Supporters said same-sex couples deserve the same protections under the law that are given to heterosexual couples.
Opponents said same-sex marriage violates their religious liberty, and argued for keeping what they call "traditional" marriage.
The measure passed on a vote of 61-to-54 as Governor Pat Quinn and other state leaders looked on.
Quinn said he'll sign the bill into law.
If that happens, the first same-sex weddings in Illinois will happen next June.