Missouri panel to hear input on religious-objections measure

Jefferson City, Mo. (AP) — The public has a chance to give Missouri lawmakers feedback on a proposed constitutional amendment to protect some businesses that object to same-sex marriage.

The Missouri House Emerging Issues Committee on Tuesday is set to hear testimony on the measure after the House breaks for the evening.

The hearing is the first since Senate Democrats staged a failed filibuster against the legislation for 37 hours. Since then, some top business groups and Missouri companies have criticized the measure.

The proposal would allow voters to decide whether to amend the Missouri Constitution to prohibit government penalties against those who cite religious beliefs while declining to provide wedding-related services to same-sex couples.

The religious protections would apply to clergy, religious organizations and some businesses such as florists and photographers.

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The Gayly – April 12, 2016 @ 7:45 a.m.