INDIANA (NEWSCHANNEL 3) - A measure that would allow businesses to turn away gay and lesbian customers in the name of religious freedom is now law in Indiana.
Governor Mike Pence signed the measure Thursday in a private ceremony.
Supporters say the law protects businesses from having to provide services for things they don't support, such as same-sex marriage.
But opponents say it discriminates against gays and lesbians, and could hurt state tourism and business.
They also say the closed door signing of the bill was insulting.
"The governor had one last chance today to restore sanity, to veto this measure but instead he chose to go behind closed doors and put his signature on one of the most mean-spirited and controversial pieces of legislation that we've seen in recent times," said Indiana House Democratic Leader Scott Pelath.
"It's just a scheduling matter. It was pretty crowded," said Governor Mike Pence (R) Indiana.
19 states have similar religious freedom laws.
The new law takes effect on July 1st.