IL Freedom Caucus statement on legislation circumventing marriage laws in other states

Photo from Education Press Conference with the Illinois Freedom Caucus. Photo submitted.

For Release

Springfield, IL – The Illinois Freedom Caucus is issuing the following statement on the Illinois House today approving legislation changing the state’s marriage laws to allow Illinois officials to circumvent laws enacted in other states.

“House Bill 1591 changes Illinois marriage laws by granting marriage licenses to couples who may not legally be able to marry in our states. The law is a preemptive measure in the event the US Supreme Court should overturn the Obergefell v. Hodges decision which prohibits states from banning same-sex marriage.

It is not the place of Illinois state government to do an end run on the laws of other states just because the radical left might not like the laws the duly elected officials in these states enact and enforce. If Illinois denies someone a professional license, we expect other states to honor our standards of professional regulations. This is how we have been able to live in one country with different states and different state laws. Our state government is in effect becoming the 21-year-old being paid to buy alcohol for high school students. It is a disgrace and an embarrassment to state leaders in other states. We are basically thumbing our nose at other states and saying we will not respect their laws and if the circumstances surrounding this legislation were to actually happen – we would be creating tremendous legal issues. Our state needs thoughtful leadership and unfortunately all we are getting is more extremism and radicalism.”

The Illinois Freedom Caucus is comprised of State Representatives Chris Miller (R-Oakland), chairman; Blaine Wilhour (R-Beecher City), vice-chairman; Adam Niemerg (R-Dieterich); Brad Halbrook (R-Shelbyville); Dan Caulkins (R-Decatur); Jed Davis (R-Newark) and David Friess (R-Red Bud). The members of the Illinois Freedom Caucus are members of the Illinois General Assembly who are advocating for limited government, lower taxes and accountability and integrity in government.