Are Republicans ducking the RFRA debate?
INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) – RFRA remains a hot button issue in Indiana.
In fact, the Religious Freedom Restoration Act may be too hot for some lawmakers to touch.
One week ago the legislative session ended that will be long remembered for the religious freedom controversy and the ensuing battle over gay rights. It is a time when lawmakers typically meet with constituents to explain what went on.
That is what happened at the Bloomington Country Club Wednesday where the Greater Bloomington Chamber of Commerce invited all of the lawmakers who represent Monroe County to take part in a question and answer session.
There were five Republicans that were invited, and none of them showed up.
The two Democrats who were in attendance said more needs to be done to repair Indiana’s image.
“So just the fix for RFRA, just a sentence or two within that language, is not enough to fix the overall impression that the world has of Indiana as a place that is not fighting discrimination but is actively encouraging it,” said Sen. Mark Stoops, D-Bloomington.
“I think you would have to repeal the RFRA law,” said Rep. Matt Pierce, D-Bloomington, “then sit down and redo it. And then match that up with the real protections for the LGBT community in our civil rights statutes.”
Some of the Republicans who missed the luncheon cited conflicts but it was scheduled to match their availability.