I understand and agree with your position as it applies to NON-emergency businesses like catering services, restaurants, retail stores, gas stations, banks, etc. However, would 1062 apply also to emergency service providers, such as paramedics at the scene of a major accident or a doctor in a hospital emergency ward? Would the paramedic/doctor be protected by 1062 to refuse to provide essential medical services to someone with life-threatening injuries if he or she believes the person is gay?
Good question. I think a careful reading of the bill may give you the answer.
http://www.azleg.gov/legtext/51leg/2r/bills/sb1062p.pdf
I think public safety would fall within compelling government interest, thus requiring equal treatment in that regard.
It also addresses substantial burden. I don’t believe this legislation would allow unchecked discrimination. Selling a loaf of bread to a homosexual would probably not qualify as a substantial burden. As public morals continue to decline, I can foresee a time when being forced to create a homosexual “wedding” cake may not be recognized as a substantial burden, and this legislation would become worthless.