Indiana Moves to Clarify Religious-Objections Law--Update

By Mark Peters 

Indiana legislative leaders said Monday they will propose a bill to clarify a religious-objections law after facing a national firestorm over the measure opponents argue could result in discrimination against gay people.

Indiana Senate President Pro Tem David Long and House Speaker Brian Bosma are drafting legislation to address concerns the law could result in discrimination, including the denial of services to gays and lesbians. Opponents--and some supporters--of the law have argued it could eventually allow such outcomes.

"There is clearly unsettled waters right now, and that could have far-ranging impact. We determined we needed to step in and be sure that those waters are calm, and that the misconceptions about the bill are settled," said Mr. Bosma at a news conference Monday.

Indiana lawmakers have argued the law, which sets a legal framework for people to challenge government rules that hamper their practice of religion, is being widely misinterpreted. They point to similar religious protections in place at the federal level and some 30 states. Still, the criticism of Indiana has been widespread, from Indianapolis-based drug maker Eli Lilly & Co. to Apple Inc. Chief Executive Tim Cook.

The challenge ahead for Messrs. Long and Bosma is building support for immediate changes to a law that is less than a week old. The legislation passed overwhelmingly in the legislature, and Gov. Mike Pence appeared Sunday on ABC's "This Week" to defend it, saying he was proud of the law.

Mr. Pence is a Republican and the GOP holds sizable majorities in the House and Senate.

Messrs. Long and Bosma said they are working with their caucuses and Mr. Pence on the proposed language of what they are describing as a clarifying measure. They didn't expect the legislation to be taken up Monday, but said they are looking to move quickly on it.

Support for the bill from Democratic leaders appeared unlikely. They are pushing instead for a repeal of the law rather than a clarification. At a morning news conference, they said Republican aren't moving aggressively enough in response to the considerable opposition.

"They were wrong, and it's time they admitted they made a horrible mistake," said state Rep. Scott Pelath, Democratic minority leader.

Write to Mark Peters at [e-mail]

Access Investor Kit for Apple, Inc.

Visit http://www.companyspotlight.com/partner?cp_code=P479&isin=US0378331005

Access Investor Kit for Eli Lilly & Co.

Visit http://www.companyspotlight.com/partner?cp_code=P479&isin=US5324571083

Subscribe to WSJ: http://online.wsj.com?mod=djnwires