In response to growing criticism of Indiana’s new “religious freedom” law, New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo has decided to ban non-essential state travel to Indiana.
His executive order comes in response to growing demands from state lawmakers to enact such a ban. A similar travel ban was signed by Connecticut Gov. Dannel Malloy on Monday.
Businesses and organizations like the NCAA have also voiced concerns about the law.
The measure’s supporters say it’s intended to protect religious liberty. On Tuesday, Indiana Gov. Mike Pence said his state has a “perception problem” and said he wants legislation to “clarify” the law.
Here’s the governor’s full statement released Tuesday afternoon:
“Today, I direct all agencies, departments, boards and commissions to immediately review all requests for state funded or state sponsored travel to the State of Indiana and to bar any such publicly funded travel that is not essential to the enforcement of state law or public health and safety. The ban on publicly funded travel shall take effect immediately.
“New York State has been, and will continue to be, a leader in ensuring that all LGBT persons enjoy full and equal civil rights. With this action, we stand by our LBGT family members, friends and colleagues to ensure that their rights are respected.”
