Mormon Church lobbied/pushed this through since most of the Legislature is Mormon. It’s about $$$$$ since most Mormon converts are now Hispanic....
You’re absolutely right. In fact, the LDS church maintains an office INSIDE the state capitol.
The new law is wildly unpopular here amongst citizens, there are plenty of lawsuits being prepared (as most believe it is patently unconstitutional), AND those state reps who voted in favor of it will find some unwelcome competition on the ballot next time ‘round.