Indiana Gov. Mike Pence held a news conference Tuesday morning to address his state’s controversial new religious freedom law. The legislation, which Pence signed into law last week, has been criticized by civil rights groups that claim the new rules allow discrimination against LGBT individuals.
The Associated Press reports: Indiana Gov. Mike Pence says he wants legislation on his desk by the end of the week, clarifying that a new religious-freedom law does not allow discrimination.
Pence said Tuesday he has been meeting with lawmakers "around the clock" to address concerns that the law will allow businesses to deny services to gays and lesbians.
The law signed by Pence last week prohibits state 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.
Pence says the law has been "grossly mischaracterized" and has put Indiana under a harsh glare. Businesses and organizations including Apple and the NCAA have voiced concern over the effect of the law, and some states have barred government-funded travel to Indiana.
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