Indiana revised its new controversial religious freedom law on Thursday morning and NCAA president Mark Emmert said that the association is “very pleased” with the changes.
“We are very pleased the Indiana legislature is taking action to amend Senate Bill 101 so that it is clear individuals cannot be discriminated against,” Emmert said in a statement.
“NCAA core values call for an environment that is inclusive and non-discriminatory for our student-athletes, membership, fans, staff and their families. We look forward to the amended bill being passed quickly and signed into law expeditiously by the governor.”
The law is titled the Religious Freedom Restoration Act and was originally passed last week. Critics of the law feel that it opens the door for discrimination against gays and lesbians on the grounds of religious belief.
The NCAA, which is based in Indianapolis, responded strongly in opposition of the law soon after it passed, even suggesting it would consider moving events like the Final Four out of state if the law did not change.
Others in collegiate athletics have also spoken out against the law. The Mid-American Conference announced Wednesday that it would not hold meetings in Indiana until the law was changed or repealed. Additionally, USC athletic director Pat Haden tweeted that he would not attend the College Football Playoff meetings in Indianapolis because of the law.
Emmert is scheduled to have a news conference on Thursday afternoon.
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Sam Cooper is a contributor for the Yahoo Sports blogs. Have a tip? Email him or follow him on Twitter!
