JEFFERSON CITY - Michael Sam, the first openly gay NFL draftee, is speaking out against a Missouri measure to protect some businesses that deny services for same-sex weddings.
Sam was among roughly 80 who rallied against the legislation Wednesday.
The former Mizzou football star came out as gay before the 2014 NFL draft and was selected by the St. Louis Rams before being cut in training camp.
Sam called a proposed constitutional amendment the opposite of respect and equality and said it doesn't reflect Missouri values.
Supporters of the measure say it's needed to shield florists and photographers who cite religion when denying goods and services for weddings of same-sex couples.
The measure already passed through the Senate. A House committee is expected to vote on it tonight.