Governor Andrew Cuomo is banning non-essential state-funded travel to Indiana over that state's religious freedom law.

The ban on publicly funded travel takes effect immediately.

Cuomo says New York State has been, and will continue to be, a leader in ensuring that all LGBT persons enjoy full and equal civil rights.

He says with this action, we stand by our LBGT family members, friends and colleagues to ensure that their rights are respected.

Critics insist the law in Indiana could be used to justify discrimination against gays and lesbians.

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