The Daily Herald reports today that State Rep. Greg Harris' bill to legalize same-sex civil unions in Illinois has met its deadline to pass out of the House, but doesn't have the requisite number of votes yet.  Harris plans to request a second extension of the deadline from House Speaker Michael Madigan:

"I am beginning to wonder if there is any reason for someone to oppose this bill other than that they oppose basic fairness to gay people and lesbians," said Harris, who is gay.

Harris said he is very close to having enough votes and said he is optimistic he can get the needed votes this session if the deadline is extended.

We'll have to wait and see if the speaker grants Harris' request. 

(UPDATE: The bill was granted a second extension today.  Harris now has until May 31 to pass it out of the House.)

In the meantime, the Sun-Times editorial board spoke up in favor of the bill today:

Harris' bill would give committed same-sex couples many of the same legal benefits of married couples. They would, among other rights, be able to visit their loved ones in the hospital, participate in making medical decisions, inherit property and be granted custody of children.

The bill specifically states that no religious institution or denomination could ever be forced to recognize these unions.

We're pushing love and commitment here, folks. Let's join the parade.

The Daily Herald editorial board did the same:

For legislators still on the fence, they are ignoring the fact that a majority of people in this country support civil unions. A recent CNN/Opinion Research Corp. poll shows 60 percent of those asked favor civil unions. Another poll has the figure at 57 percent.

Beyond polls, this boils down to a question of fairness. Same-sex couples do not seek special rights. They should be able to make emergency medical decisions just as married couples do. There are horrific examples of partners being denied access in an emergency. They should have access to state spousal benefits, including survivor benefits. They should be able to file civil actions based on spousal status. They should have the right to control the disposition of remains when a partner dies. They should have the right to share a nursing-home room. The list goes on. [...]

We believe in fairness. We believe a majority of Illinois residents believe in fairness. And we demand the Legislature do the right and just thing and vote for civil unions.