The first step has been taken to cast another look at statewide legal protections for citizens, based on sexual orientation and gender identity. Freedom Indiana, a grassroots organization, is launching a well-funded campaign to try to make that law a reality.
Heather Givans makes her living cutting, sewing and piecing things together. She wants a law that prohibits businesses like hers and others, from discriminating against people because of their sexual orientation or gender identity.
"I feel it is important,” she said.
Indiana was embarrassed earlier this year when the state legislature passed the first version of RFRA. Some businesses and schools refused to even their employees travel to Indiana because of a perceived lack of protection from discrimination. The goal of this new campaign is to nip that in the bud.
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“There are people being fired for being gay or transgender,” said Chris Paulsen.
Currently, no bill sponsor has been identified, but Freedom of Indiana would like the law passed in this upcoming session of the legislature. A spokeswoman for Gov. Mike Pence said he is listening to people on all sides of the issue to determine how to best move forward.
18 states have laws that offer protections based on sexual orientation and gender identity.
