The measure would prohibit state and local laws that "substantially burden" the ability of people, businesses and associations to follow their religious beliefs.

Even if Gov. Pence signs the Religious Freedom Restoration Act, or RFRA, an Indianapolis employment lawyer says that doesn't preclude employers in the state from taking action against employees who might try to invoke the new law.

Indiana took another step toward becoming the first state to prohibit taxes on Internet access after a bill that would implement a permanent ban passed the House Ways and Means Committee unanimously.

Indiana lawmakers said Wednesday they will revisit a proposal next year to establish "baby boxes" for women to anonymously surrender their newborns. But first, they want the state health department to recommend protocols and a commission focused on improving children's lives to examine the plan and suggest other ways to decrease child abandonment.

The Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), a denomination with its headquarters in Indianapolis, has joined the chorus of voices urging Gov. Mike Pence not to sign Senate Bill 101, the so-called "Religious Freedom Restoration Act," which passed the House earlier this week.

The 73-year-old East Chicago Democrat, who served in the House since 1983, died Monday. He had been battling cancer.

The bill requires utility companies to create energy efficiency plans at least every three years. The companies submit the plans, which must include "reasonable" savings goals, to the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission for approval.

Legislation nearing passage would allow private businesses in Indiana to give preference to military veterans when hiring new employees. It's a system already in use in the public sector.

The "Right to Try" law allows terminally ill patients to use medications that have gone through the first of the FDA's three-step approval process.

Bills to provide immunity for volunteer health care providers and individuals who forcibly enter a car in order to rescue a child both passed committee unanimously. But the committee postponed a vote on a bill to provide immunity to schools and communities that open their recreational facilities for public use.