Religious freedom bill moves to Ariz. governor

TUCSON, Ariz. — Some Arizona business owners, still smarting from boycotts launched after the state passed a sweeping law against illegal immigration, are trying to fend off possible backlash froma new bill that has the gay community and its supporters in an uproar.

Some businesses have taken to social media, saying that even if the bill does become law, they will welcome LGBT customers.

The measure, which received final approval in the Republican- controlled legislature Thursday, is designed to bolster a business owner’s right to refuse service to gays and others if the owner believes doing so violates the practice and observance of his or her religion.

Arizona Gov. Jan Brewer, a Republican, on Friday told CNN that the bill was a “very controversial piece of legislation. We know that. We know that it’s failed in a lot of states across the country.” Brewer said she would likely decide by Friday whether to support the bill.

The measure is similar to proposals in other states, including ones that failed in Kansas and Idaho. Another is under consideration inUtah.

Opponents, including Democratic lawmakers and gay rights groups, describe the bill as unconstitutional, discriminatory and divisive.

Proponents say the bill is being misrepresented and stress that it’s not a discriminatory bill, saying it’s intended to protect religious freedom — rights that “must be respected,” said Republican state Sen. Steve Yarbrough, who introduced the measure.