INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — Hundreds of people are gathered outside of Indiana Statehouse to rally against the state's new law that opponents say could sanction discrimination against gay people.
Republican Gov. Mike Pence signed a bill Thursday prohibiting 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.
The law's supporters say it will keep the government from compelling people to provide services they find objectionable on religious grounds.
Saturday's crowd chanted "Pence must go" and held signs reading "I'm pretty sure God doesn't hate anyone" and "No hate in our state."
Indiana's law has been widely criticized by businesses and organizations around the country.
Sixteen states have introduced similar legislation, which is patterned after a federal act.
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