Ill. Lawmakers Close on Crafting Gay Marriage Bill for 2013

Hope to send bill to governor early next year

Two Illinois lawmakers say they're "within striking distance" of getting legislative approval for gay marriage and hope to send a bill to Gov. Pat Quinn shortly after the new year.

Rep. Greg Harris and Sen. Heather Steans (STAYNZ') say they'll call for a vote on a gay marriage bill when the Legislature reconvenes in January.

The Chicago Democrats say public opinion favoring equal rights for same-sex partners is moving rapidly. The fact that four states voted in favor of the issue or opposed a ban on it in November helps.