Indiana Religious Freedom Law Revised

UPDATE: 

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) – Indiana Gov. Mike Pence has approved changes to new law that sparked boycotts of the state amid fears that it would allow discrimination against lesbians and gays.

Pence had asked lawmakers to clarify language in the religious objections law earlier this week as businesses canceled conventions and governments banned travel to the state. The House and Senate approved the changes Thursday after intense negotiations with business and community leaders, and Pence signed it late in the day.

The revised legislation prohibits providers from using the law as a legal defense for refusing to provide services, goods, facilities or accommodations. It also bars discrimination based on factors that include race, religion, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or United States military service.

The law will take effect July 1.

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Indianapolis, Indiana (CBS) Indiana lawmakers announced changes to the state’s controversial religious freedom law.

The amendment is designed to stop criticism that the measure allows for discrimination. 

Indiana Republicans say their revision to the Religious Freedom Law should stop the furious backlash that has consumed their state.

Senate President Pro Tem Republican David Long says, "It makes it crystal clear to anyone in this country that the RFRA law cannot be used to discriminate against anyone."

The amendment to the Religious Freedom Restoration Act bans discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity.

Both the house and senate have approved the language and sent it to the governor to sign.

But democratic leaders say the changes are not enough.

Indiana House Minority Leader Democrat Scott Pelath says, "I want to hear someone say we made a grave mistake and caused the state tremendous embarrassment."

Reporter Adriana Diaz says, "The economic stakes are high. Tourism brings Indiana more than 4-billion dollars a year."

Lawmakers hope the new language will help keep the money flowing

Reporter asks, "Do you really think it can undo the damage already caused to Indiana’s image?"

Indiana House Speaker Republican Brian Bosma says, "I wish Senator Long and I were in charge of public relations for the state. The message is clear today. Indiana is open for business. We welcome everyone."

Chris Douglas is a gay activist who pushed lawmakers to include specific protections for the LGBT community.

He says, "I feel finally something is happening with Indiana law that will correct this for all hoosiers."

Business and political leaders say the fight has left deep wounds and that even when the political crisis is over, it could it could take months or years for Indiana to heal.

The Arkansas governor signed a revised version of that state’s Religious Freedom Law to show it does not permit discrimination.