Indiana Officials Look to Stem Religious Objections Fallout

INDIANAPOLIS -- The wave of protests from businesses and on social media over Indiana's new religious objections law has many local officials working to counter the criticism.

Use of the hashtag "boycottindiana" spread across Twitter Friday as activists complained the measure opens the door to legalized discrimination against gay people. The White House press secretary said the law isn't a step toward equality and justice.

Supporters of the bill Gov. Mike Pence signed Thursday say arguments that it allows discrimination are overblown. They maintain that hasn't happened under similar laws covering the federal government and in 19 other states.

Republican Indianapolis Mayor Greg Ballard says he wants businesses to know the city is welcoming to all. The Evansville and South Bend mayors are touting their cities as inclusive communities.