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Post by In The News on Mar 22, 2013 16:14:29 GMT -5
bluegrasspolitics.com Beshear says no to religious freedom in Kentucky
Gov. Steve Beshear vetoed a controversial religious freedom bill Friday afternoon, saying the measure was well intended but would spark costly taxpayer-funded court cases and bring an array of unintended consequences. House Bill 279 would allow someone with “sincerely held” religious beliefs to disregard state laws “unless the government proves by clear and convincing evidence that it has a compelling governmental interest in infringing” the person’s religious freedom. Gay rights and human rights groups have said the bill could be used to challenge local anti-discrimination laws that protect gays and lesbians in Lexington, Louisville, Covington and Vicco. In a written statement, Senate President Robert Stivers, R-Manchester, said, “The Senate is prepared to override the veto of HB 279 if and when the Speaker moves to do so. As a House bill, that chamber must act on the bill first.” The House passed the bill earlier this month with only seven dissenting votes. The Republican-led Senate passed it 29-6. Lawmakers return to Frankfort on Monday for the final two days of the legislative session. Damron said there will be enough time to override the veto by midnight on Tuesday. Gay rights groups applauded Beshear Friday for vetoing the bill. bluegrasspolitics.bloginky.com/2013/03/22/beshear-to-veto-religious-freedom-bill-sponsor-says
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