Arkansas House to hear religion, anti-discrimination bills

Little Rock, Ark. (AP) — Arkansas lawmakers are taking up a pair of measures that opponents say would sanction discrimination against gays and lesbians.

The authors of both bills say they were inspired to change state law after the city of Fayetteville temporarily made it illegal to discriminate against someone based on their sexual orientation or gender identity in the areas of housing, work and public accommodation.

One bill would bar cities and counties from expanding their anti-discrimination ordinances past that of state law. Its author says the change will protect businesses from a potential hodgepodge of regulations.

The other is touted as a way to defend religious views. It would prevent state or local governments from placing a "substantial burden" on a person's right to exercise their religion.

The House considers both on Friday.

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The Gayly – February 13, 2015 @ 6:10am.