Arkansas Governor Sends Religious Freedom Bill Back for Revision

Arkansas lawmakers approved a religious freedom bill this week that bears similarity to the recent legislation passed by Indiana's Gov. Mike Pence.

The legislation, which passed Arkansas' House this week, prevents the government from infringing upon one's religious freedoms unless they have compelling interest to do so.

A similar piece of legislation recently approved by Indiana Gov. Mike Pence has received some criticism from those who argue the law will allow local business owners to discriminate against gay customers based on their religious convictions.

Pence has defended the law, saying its purpose is to protect religious freedom, and those who argue it will lead to discrimination have misunderstood the bill's purpose.

On Wednesday, Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson said from a Little Rock press conference that he will be sending the bill back to legislators so they may make changes.

Hutchinson said in his statement that he will not sign the version of the bill that currently sits on his desk.

Indiana Gov. Pence said this week that he will seek to "clarify" that the new religious freedom bill does not give license to discriminate against gay people in the state.

"It would be helpful to move legislation this week that makes it clear that this law does not give businesses a right to deny services to anyone," Pence said at an Indianapolis press conference Tuesday.

Pence added during the press conference that he was surprised to see so much backlash over a bill that he believes strengthens First Amendment protections for Indiana citizens.

"Was I expecting this kind of backlash? Heavens no," Pence said Tuesday.