SPRINGFIELD – Illinois pressed ahead Tuesday toward becoming the third state to allow illegal immigrants to get driver’s licenses, with the state Senate approving a bipartisan plan hours after top Republicans offered support.

The tone of the discussion – with little opposition among senators – was a stark contrast to previous years and came weeks after Republicans suffered devastating Election Day losses, which they blamed partly on failing to appeal to immigrants and minorities.

The measure, which would let illegal immigrants get tested for licenses and buy insurance without facing deportation, passed the state Senate 41-14. It headed to the House, where it faces similar reception. A spokesman for House Speaker Mike Madigan said it wouldn’t likely come up for a vote until January. The veto session ends today.