Critics say new law will victimize gays
INDIANAPOLIS — Indiana Gov. Mike Pence said Tuesday he wants legislation on his desk by the end of the week to clarify the state’s new religious-freedom law does not allow discrimination against gays and lesbians.
Pence defended the Indiana measure as a vehicle to protect religious liberty, but said he has been meeting with lawmakers “around the clock” to address concerns it would allow businesses to deny services to gay customers.
The governor said he does not believe “for a minute” lawmakers intended “to create a licence to discriminate.”
“It certainly wasn’t my intent,” said Pence, who signed the law last week.
The Indiana law prohibits any laws that “substantially burden” a person’s ability to follow his or her religious beliefs. The definition of “person” includes religious institutions, businesses and associations.
Although the legal language does not specifically mention gays and lesbians, critics say the law is designed to protect businesses and individuals who don’t want to serve gays and lesbians, such as florists or caterers who might be hired for a same-sex wedding. In Washington, White House spokesman Josh Earnest said Indiana officials appeared to be in “damagecontrol mode.”
Businesses and organizations have voiced concern over Indiana’s law.
Some states have barred government-funded travel there.
Democratic legislative leaders said the proposed clarifications would not be enough.
Meanwhile in Arkansas, lawmakers defied criticism and followed Indiana’s lead to pass a similar law. It now goes to Republican Gov. Asa Hutchinson, who has said he will sign it into law.