Illinois governor, GOP US senator criticize Indiana law

CHICAGO (AP) – Illinois Gov. Bruce Rauner says Indiana’s religious objections law may open the door to discriminatory behavior.

Rauner spoke to reporters Wednesday in Chicago after an unrelated event.

The Republican says Illinois has “struck the right balance” between religious freedom and anti-discrimination laws.

U.S. Sen. Mark Kirk of Illinois went a step further, saying he strongly opposes the law. He says it could “enshrine bigotry under the cover of religion.” He said it’s a bad practice and “basically un-American.”

Indiana’s law has been widely criticized by businesses and organizations around the country, but proponents say it’ll keep the government from compelling people to provide services they find objectionable on religious grounds.

Indiana lawmakers are working to clarify the bill’s intent.