By AP/KWMU
Springfield, Ill. – Illinois lawmakers have passed a measure to ban discrimination of gays and lesbians.
The House voted 65-51 Tuesday to prohibit discriminating against people because of "sexual orientation" in housing, employment, credit and other areas. The Senate passed the bill Monday.
Gay rights groups have fought for the measure for a decade.
Supporters have said it's simply a matter of civil rights already ensured based on race or religion. Opponents have said it opens the door to gay marriage and would infringe on religious organizations' rights.
Now the bill heads to Governor Rod Blagojevich.
To hear a report from Illinois Public Radio's Sean Crawford on the bill,
click here --->