State Senator Mattie Hunter (D-Chicago) helped pass fair marriage legislation for same-sex couples out of the Illinois Senate Thursday.

“I am glad Illinois is taking this important step towards achieving equality for all citizens,” said Hunter after the 34-21 Senate vote. “I maintain that justice for everyone is always our greatest goal, and now it seems that goal is on its way to being accomplished.”

SB 10 provides marriage equality for same-sex couples in Illinois.

At the same time, the proposal protects religious institutions’ rights by clarifying that religious organizations and their facilities are under no state requirement to host or participate in same-sex marriages.

SB 10 now moves to the Illinois House for consideration.