TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Kansas Gov. Sam Brownback described the U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling legalizing same-sex marriage as a potential threat to religious liberties.

Meanwhile, Missouri Gov. Jay Nixon called the decision an important step toward creating a fairer society.

Advocates on both sides of the issue and the border Wednesday noted the sharp contrast in the neighboring governors’ responses in the form of executive orders the day before.

Brownback’s order told Kansas government agencies that they can’t punish ministers or religious groups for opposing same-sex marriage. His order said the U.S. Supreme Court decision last month could limit religious liberties.

Nixon’s order directs Missouri state agencies to take all necessary measures to comply with the decision. He called on his state’s lawmakers to expand anti-discrimination laws to cover gays and lesbians.