LITTLE ROCK, AR – Two state lawmakers on opposite sides of a controversial religious protection bill shared the spotlight on Friday in Little Rock.
Rep. Bob Ballinger, R-Hindsville, was the sponsor of the so called “Conscience Protection Act” — which he says was designed to protect Arkansans from being forced to violate their religious beliefs.
But some said it would allow discrimination based on sexual orientation.
In front of the Political Animals Club on Friday afternoon, Ballinger explained the path to controversy.
Rep. Clark Tucker, D-Little Rock, also spoke during the event saying he agrees that religious beliefs must be protected.
But he says there should also be safeguards to keep people from facing discrimination in civic life.
He says it may be an issue they revisit during the next legislative session.
