The site was developed after the Illinois Governor Pat Quinn signed the states' civil unions bill into law. The law itself will go into effect on June 1, 2011. Writes Lambda Legal:
We know from experience in other states that have adopted civil union laws, that many couples and their children encounter problems getting respect for their relationships, whether in hospitals settings, by insurerers, employers, schools or in other situations. While not all unfair treatment leads to legal action, knowing more about your rights will help you respond.
For those of you who are eligible, you can sign up here.