INDIANAPOLIS (AP) _ Republicans in the Indiana House have turned aside attempts by Democrats to make changes to a proposal that would add greater protections for religious objections into state law.
The debate Thursday occurred as about 100 opponents and supporters of the bill filled the House gallery and dozens held signs in the hallway outside the chamber.
Democrats proposed amendments they said were aimed at ensuring the measure couldn't be used to overturn local civil rights ordinances that protect gays and lesbians or to challenge regulations on church day cares.
The House could vote next week on approving the bill. Supporters say it's aimed at preventing the government from compelling people to be involved in activities such as same-sex weddings that they consider objectionable.
