SJR 39 possible impacts on Mid-Mo business

Missouri lawmakers heard hours of testimony Tuesday night about Senate Joint Resolution 39. Supporters of the religious freedom say the bill would protect businesses who refuse service to customers based on religious reasons.

If this bill were to become law, it could have an effect on Mid-Missouri businesses. Other states have already seen a lose in business because of similar bills. Indiana has reportedly $60 million since passing their religious objections bill last year.

ABC 17 News spoke with Columbia City Councilman Karl Skala about the possible impacts on Columbia and Mid-Missouri if this became law. Skala attended the REDI board meeting Wednesday. REDI focuses on economic development in Columbia.

“I think they would be very concerned about the potential for stifling some of the new growth that’s possible,” Skala said.

The City of Columbia already has an ordinance prohibiting discrimination based on someone’s sexual orientation or gender identity. Skala says the city would have to figure out what to do with their local ordinance if SJR 39 became state law.

SJR 39 still has to pass the house and then be voted on by the voters of Missouri before becoming law.

The House Committee on Emerging issues is expected to vote on SJR 39 next week.