The new law states specifically that those who believe that marriage "should be recognized as the union of one man and one woman" are empowered to discriminate in hiring, housing and public accommodations against gay couples.

The "new commandment" Jesus gave his followers the night before he died was "love one another," but most certainly do not love one another by passing legislation that misuses religion as an excuse to discriminate against one another.

"[T]here is nothing to stop bigamy, pedophilia or any other sexual practice from receiving the same protection."

We can't afford this type of loss in West Virginia. More importantly we cannot continue to send the message that it is acceptable to discriminate against people in this state as a result of their sexual orientation and gender identity.

Business leaders have got to know that, ultimately, if Pence wins by promoting homophobic laws, it's a long-term loss for them.