Reactions vary to Gov. Jan Brewer's veto of SB1062

Josh Deinert, a graphic designer at Fast Signs, shows an anti-Senate Bill 1062 sign that reads “Open For Business To Everyone” on Wednesday in Phoenix. (AP Photo/Matt York)

When the Arizona Legislature passed SB1062 last week, national debate sparked mainly fueled by social media over gay rights in America.

Opponents said that the bill would be legalizing discrimination, while defenders said that it was a support for religious freedom.

On Wednesday evening, a large crowd gathered outside the state capital cheered when Brewer vetoed the bill. Those who supported it called it a loss for individual freedom.

“I have not heard one example in Arizona where a business owner’s religious liberty has been violated,” Brewer said. “The bill is broadly worded and could result in unintended and negative consequences.”

The bill was designed to protect people who assert their religious beliefs in refusing service to gays or others who offend their beliefs from lawsuits. Opponents called it an open attack on gays.

Arizona business leaders feared a financial backlash, ranging from lost tourism and businesses deciding to relocate elsewhere. There were also hints that next year’s Super Bowl, scheduled for Arizona, would be moved. The Arizona Super Bowl Host Committee said it did not support the legislation. 

“Our society is undergoing many dramatic changes.” Brewer said in her veto remarks. “However, I sincerely believe that Senate Bill 1062 has the potential to create more problems than it purports to solve. It could divide Arizona in ways we cannot even imagine and nobody could ever want.”

Read the full story here: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/02/26/jan-brewer-veto_n_4862745.html