Utah's Republican governor says he'll sign a landmark proposal protecting gay and transgender individuals and religious rights if the bill makes it to his desk.
Gov. Gary Herbert told reporters Thursday afternoon that he thinks it will please advocates on both sides and could serve as a model for other states.
The proposal passed its first test at the state Legislature on Thursday morning, winning the unanimous support of a GOP-controlled Senate committee.
The bill, which has earned the rare stamp of approval from the Utah-based Mormon church, bars discrimination against gay and transgender individuals while protecting the rights of religious groups and individuals.
Lawmakers became emotional during the two hour hearing as gay and transgender residents and religious and conservative groups spoke for and against the measure.
© Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.