NASCAR: We're disappointed in in Indiana's freedom to discriminate law...

NASCAR became the latest sports organization to issue a statement about Indiana Gov. Mike Pence signing into law the Religious Freedom Restoration Act, which takes effect July 1.

The act prohibits laws that “substantially burden” a person’s freedom of religion unless the government can prove a compelling interest in imposing that burden.

The law has drawn sharp criticism from gay and LGBT groups, some corporations and leagues. Pence said in a news conference Tuesday morning that he wants legislation added that makes it clear that business have no rights to deny service to anyone under the Religious Freedom Restoration Act.

NASCAR’s Brett Jewkes, senior vice president and chief communications officer, issued a statement as Pence spoke Tuesday.

“NASCAR is disappointed by the recent legislation passed in Indiana. We will not embrace nor participate in exclusion or intolerance. We are committed to diversity and inclusion within our sport and therefore will continue to welcome all competitors and fans at our events in the state of Indiana and anywhere else we race.”

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