Georgia's "religious liberty" effort got a ringing endorsement from the Republican base over the weekend.
GOP activists gathered over the weekend for Congressional District gatherings across the state, and grassroots organizers in 11 of the 14 districts adopted resolutions embracing the stalled legislation.
State Sen. Josh McKoon, the Columbus Republican who championed the legislation, noted that the resolution that passed in each district specifically called for the House to pass the legislation, Senate Bill 129, without any amendment. He said it was a "loud and clear message" that activists wanted that the Republican base wants action on the controversial legislation.
The proposal was a constant undercurrent of debate during the legislative session. Supporters describe it as a way to protect people of any religion from government interference. Opponents worry it could lead to discrimination against gays and lesbians and inspire frivolous lawsuits.
A version of the legislation was swiftly approved by Senate lawmakers, but it was tabled in the House after three Republicans joined with Democrats to add an anti-discrimination amendment. And the uproar over similar bills in Arkansas and Indiana, along with growing pushback from iconic Georgia businesses, seemed to seal its fate.
The legislation was long expected to roar back to life next year, and Gov. Nathan Deal has said he views the anti-discrimination provision as "the most important" change he believes lawmakers should make to ensure its passage. That puts him at odds with McKoon, who has objected to the addition as unnecessary.
"Grassroots Republicans sent a loud and clear message to elected leaders Saturday," said McKoon. "They want the Legislature to give final passage to Senate Bill 129 so Georgians of every faith can have the same protection of their religious liberty interest from state and local government that they already have from the federal government - to honor the promise of the First Amendment."
He added: "I intend to carry that message back with me next year to the Gold Dome."
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