INDIANAPOLIS (AP) – The Indiana Chamber of Commerce is opposing a proposed religious freedom law being considered by state legislators.

Chamber of Commerce CEO Kevin Brinegar says the organization believes religious liberty is protected by existing state laws and that the change could expose businesses to lawsuits over religious belief claims from employees.

An Indiana Senate committee was hearing more than three hours of testimony on the proposal Monday.

Indiana University law professor Daniel Conkle told the committee he supports same-sex marriage rights but believes the religious freedom proposal would narrowly protect a baker or photographer from being compelled to provide their services. He says the proposal would shield religious minorities from government interference.

The committee chairman says a vote on the proposal won't take place until a future meeting.