IL HB4857

Amends the Chicago Teacher Article of the Illinois Pension Code to allow unmarried teachers to designate a domestic partner beginning July 1, 2010.

Designated domestic partners become eligible to receive survivor and death benefits under the same conditions as a surviving spouse.

Defines "domestic partner" as a same-gender individual who has resided with the teacher for at least 12 months, is not related by blood in a degree that would prohibit marriage, is not married to another person, and shares an exclusive mutual commitment with the teacher.

Designations are revocable but cannot be made or changed more than once in any 24-month period; marriage of the teacher automatically revokes any prior domestic partner designation.

Act takes effect immediately upon enactment.