Maine Senator to Withdraw Religious Objections Bill

A Republican Maine senator says he's withdrawing his "religious freedom" bill that's similar to proposals that prompted protests in other states.

Sen. David Burns said Wednesday that he doesn't believe his proposal would get a fair hearing in the Legislature. He says opponents and the media have "poisoned the well of public discussion."

Similar bills sparked fierce criticism, boycotts and protests in Indiana and Arkansas from people who say it would allow discrimination against gays and lesbians. Burns insists his proposal was different than the one in Indiana and based on a 1993 federal law.

Several clergy members from the United Church of Christ came to the Statehouse Wednesday to urge lawmakers to reject the bill. They said they were pleased with the news that the bill will be withdrawn. (AP)