OKLAHOMA CITY — A Senate panel passed a bill that would protect those who discriminate based on marriage, lifestyle or behavior.

Dubbed the “Oklahoma Right of Conscience Act,” Senate Bill 197 heads to the Senate floor for consideration. Sen. Joseph Silk, R-Broken Bow, is the author.

The measure “will give business owners and government employees a free pass to refuse to do business or provide vital services for LGBTQ individuals and groups,” said Toby Jenkins, Oklahomans for Equality executive director. “If this bill becomes law, day-to-day life will become treacherous and dangerous. LGBTQ Oklahomans won’t know where to buy food, where to live or where to seek medical services because a simple trip to the grocery store might have the door slammed in your face.”