A Wichita-based group has left voicemail messages urging Kansans to thank their state representative who voted for a bill that sought to protect from lawsuits employees who refused service to anyone based on religious beliefs about marriage.

House members overwhelmingly approved the bill, but Senate leaders blocked it, saying it was too broad, would hurt businesses and was discriminatory.

Supporters said the measure would protect religious freedom; opponents said it sanctioned discrimination against gay people.

Many Kansans received voicemails last week from the Kansas Family Policy Council urging them to thank their representative who voted “Yea” on the bill.

Robert Noland, executive director of the Kansas Family Policy Council, says the automated calls targeted people living in districts with representatives who supported the bill.

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Associated Press information from: The Wichita Eagle