Illinois businesses can't use religion to refuse service

Chicago (AP) — The Illinois Human Rights Commission says public businesses in the state cannot refuse to serve same-sex couples based on religion.

The Chicago Tribune reports Administrative Law Judge Michael R. Robinson ruled it didn't make sense for a Paxton bed and breakfast to argue a same-sex civil union ceremony was outside the scope of services it already provided to other guests.

Thursday's ruling came in the case of a same-sex couple denied access to Timber Creek Bed and Breakfast when inquiring about potential venues for their civil union ceremony in 2011.

The owner of the bed and breakfast emailed the couple stating the venue "will never host same-sex civil unions."

Attorneys for the bed-and-breakfast argued they didn't violate human rights because the couple was making general inquiries, not asking about specific dates.

Telephone calls to Timber Creek for comment weren't immediately returned.

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Information from: Chicago Tribune, Chicago, IL.

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The Gayly – September 18, 2015 @ 1:50pm.