The Wyoming House of Representatives began debate Thursday on a bill that could allow people in Wyoming to deny services to individuals when they have a religious conflict with their behavior or actions.
The Religious Freedom Restoration Act is modeled after legislation approved in other states, but opponents say it allows discrimination.
During floor debate, Democrat Charles Pelkey of Laramie said the bill came about due to the dissatisfaction some have with legalized gay marriage.The legislation could allow county clerks to deny marriage licenses to gay couples. Cheyenne Democrat Mary Throne says the legislation goes against Wyoming values.
“This will send an awful, awful message around the country about our state. An ugly message that is contrary to everything I have learned in my life here.”
Sponsor Nathan Winters denied it allowed people to discriminate and Cheyenne Republican Harlan Edmonds said that opponents may have other motivations.
“People who still think they are victims are now the aggressors. The bottom rail’s on top. And now they want to eradicate certain conservative cultures and religions and they see this bill as a threat because it’s a self-defense bill.”
