(INDIANAPOLIS-AP) Hundreds of people gathered outside of Indiana Statehouse on Saturday to rally against the state’s new law that opponents say could sanction discrimination against gay people.

Republican Governor Mike Pence signed a bill this past week prohibiting state laws that “substantially burden” a person’s ability to follow his or her religious beliefs. The definition of “person” includes religious institutions, businesses and associations.

The law’s supporters say it will keep the government from compelling people to provide services they find objectionable on religious grounds.

Sixteen states have introduced similar legislation, which is patterned after a federal act.

Saturday’s crowd chanted “Pence must go” and held signs reading “I’m pretty sure God doesn’t hate anyone” and “No hate in our state.”

Meantime, signage of the bill may cost the state, in terms of economic growth.

The founder of Angie’s List says the consumer review service is suspending its plans for a $40 million expansion in Indianapolis because of the law.

Founder and CEO Bill Oesterle said in a statement, Saturday, the expansion that called for adding 1,000 jobs over five years is now on hold “until we fully understand the implications of the freedom restoration act on our employees.”

Oesterle says the Indianapolis-based company is now “reviewing alternatives for the expansion of its headquarters.”

Angie’s List was seeking an $18.5 million incentive package from the City-County Council. The council had delayed a decision on that proposal.

The wave of protests from businesses and on social media has many officials working to counter the criticism.

Use of the hashtag “BoycottIndiana” is spreading across Twitter as activists complain the measure opens the door to legalized discrimination against gay people.