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INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — Indiana is poised to become the first state this year to enact one of numerous state religious objection bills that critics say could legalize discrimination against gays.
The Indiana Senate gave final legislative approval Tuesday to the Republican-backed bill. GOP Gov. Mike Pence says he will sign it into law.
The measure would prohibit state and local laws that "substantially burden" the ability of people, businesses and associations to follow their religious beliefs.
Some national gay-rights groups say the proposals in Indiana and about a dozen other states try to provide legal cover for discrimination as the nation's highest court prepares to mull the gay marriage question.
But supporters say it aims to prevent the government from compelling people to provide services for activities they consider objectionable.
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