An Indiana House Committee voted 9-4 to pass the Religious Freedom Restoration Act (RFRA) , but not before making changes to make business feel better.
Under RFRA a state or local government could not mandate an individual or corporation to engage in an activity which would violate their religious beliefs or principals without a compelling reason.
Supporters say the bill was needed to protect religious freedom while opponents said it would simply create a vehicle for discrimination.
Prior to the vote the bill was amended to clarify that RFRA only applied to the government and did not create a private cause of action against an employer.
The legislation now goes to the full House for amendments and then a final vote. If passed, the measure would have to be reconciled with the Senate.
Indy Politics has explored this issue in detail this session.
Click here for an explanation of RFRA.
Click here to hear both sides of RFRA make their case.
