Illinois moved a step closer to becoming the tenth state to legalize same-sex marriage.
The state Senate approved a same-sex marriage bill in a vote on Thursday. The measure now moves to the Illinois House, which is more divided on the issue.
Gay activists are also promoting same-sex marriage in Rhode Island. A Senate committee there is considering a bill passed by the Rhode Island House last month.
Governors in both states say they will sign a gay marriage bill into law.