The Republican-led Kentucky Senate on Tuesday passed a controversial bill that aims to legally protect businesses that don’t want to serve gay or lesbian customers because of their religious beliefs.

Senate Bill 180, also known by critics as "License to Discriminate," passed with a 22-16 vote. Five Senate Republicans joined 11 Senate Democrats in opposing the bill.

The Herald-Leader reported that Republican Albert Robinson of London, who sponsored the bill, said his proposal was for “a common-sense, live-and-let-live” bill designed to protect the religious liberties of everyone.

However, the Fairness Coalition released a statement saying that states that have passed similar legislation targeting LGBT people have experienced serious economic harm.

"Senate Bill 180 is not good for the hospitality industry in Louisville or the entire Commonwealth," Karen Williams, President and CEO, Louisville Convention and Visitors Bureau said. "Its passage would send a negative message to visitors and major conventions and cause a decrease in tourism business."

The bill will now go to the Democratic-controlled House.