Reis: Bill Recognizing Civil Unions a Mistake

March 26, 2007

Springfield…. State Representative David Reis (R – Ste. Marie) was joined in Springfield this week by the Illinois Family Institute and other pro-family advocates opposing the passage of HB 1826, a bill Reis says stops just short of state-sponsored gay marriage.
 
By a 5-4 vote, members of the House Human Services committee approved a bill that would give same-sex couples the protections married couples enjoy, including hospital visitation rights, child custody and survivor benefits. The measure is sponsored by Rep. Greg Harris of Chicago, the only openly gay member of the Illinois legislature.

“This bill extends nearly all of the same rights afforded to married couples to same sex couples. Naming the relationship a ‘civil union’ instead of ‘gay marriage’ is just an attempt by the sponsor and other gay rights activists to mislead the public as to the actual intent of the bill – the beginning of the end of traditional marriage” said Reis.
 
There is no certainty the bill will pass in both the House and Senate. However, Reis and many other Republicans, family organizations and faith-based groups are gearing up to fight any further advancement. “This is not the lifestyle that we should be condoning in our country. My colleagues, constituents, and I do not feel that government should recognize or reward this type of behavior.” said Reis. “Strong families help build strong communities. As an elected body, we must do all we can to promote and uphold our traditional family values.” Reis said.
 
Reis has introduced HJRCA 1 which would place on the next election ballot the question of only recognizing marriages between one man and one woman in the State of Illinois.
 
“This is the second time I have introduced this bill and it has never even received a hearing” said Reis. “Unfortunately the Democrats who control the agenda in Springfield would rather promote their anti-family agenda over legislation protecting our time honored traditions.”