Senator Greg Taylor says recent incidents - including vandalized churches - underline the need for such a bill, which he'll author this session.

Republican legislative leaders say Gov. Mike Pence was clear in his State of the State about the necessity of protecting religious freedom when it comes to the debate over LGBT rights. Democratic leaders say Pence failed to provide any leadership.

Arnold represents District 8 which encompasses the majority of LaPorte County and the eastern part of Michigan City.

The Senate Democrats' proposal essentially adds four words to the list of people protected by the state civil rights law: "sexual orientation and gender identity."