Following in the footsteps of Indiana, Arkansas last Friday passed HB 1228, a ‘religious freedom’ bill that could allow businesses to discriminate in providing services for LGBTI customers. The governor has indicated that he will sign it once it reaches his desk.

The bill is today (30 March) due to return to the House Judiciary Committee for final consideration.

After Indiana passed its Religious Freedom Restoration Act, a raft of businesses have said that they would not be investing in the state, while the city of San Francisco said that it would not pay to send city employees there. HRC is hoping that the negative press that Indiana has attracted may influence Hutchinson.

Over the weekend, Apple CEO Tim Cook penned an op-ed for the Washing Post explaining why he believes such ‘religious freedom’ bills are discriminatory. Both Apple and Wal-Mart have voiced their opposition to the Arkansas bill.

http://www.gaystarnews.com/article/human-rights-campaign-arkansas-closed-business300315

Arkansas House Panel OKs ‘Religious Freedom’ Amendments; Opponents Rally

LITTLE ROCK — A House committee on Monday advanced an amended version of the controversial religious freedom bill in a party-line vote.

The House Judiciary Committee voted 11-5 to concur in Senate amendments to House Bill 1228 by Rep. Bob Ballinger R-Hindsville. The bill goes next to the full House for consideration of the amendments.

Gov. Asa Hutchinson has said he will sign the bill.

http://swtimes.com/legislature/arkansas-house-panel-oks-religious-freedom-amendments-opponents-rally