Indiana House Approves “Religious Freedom” Bill that May Allow LGBT Discrimination

Yesterday, the Indiana House voted 63-31 in favor of bill SB 101 that allows private businesses, individuals and organizations to refuse services for same-sex weddings because of religious beliefs. And Republican Gov. Mike Pence said he plans to sign the legislation when it lands on his desk.

According to the Bill

Religious freedom restoration. Prohibits a governmental entity from substantially burdening a person's exercise of religion, even if the burden results from a rule of general applicability, unless the governmental entity can demonstrate that the burden: (1) is in furtherance of a compelling governmental interest; and (2) is the least restrictive means of furthering the compelling governmental interest. Provides a procedure for remedying a violation. Specifies that the religious freedom law applies to the implementation or application of a law regardless of whether the state or any other governmental entity or official is a party to a proceeding implementing or applying the law.

Cause and Effect

Many are arguing that this bill will have negative effects on Indiana as a whole and will dissuade many large corporations from bringing business to the state as well as allow blatant discrimination against the gay community.