Hollywood Boycotts Brunei Hotels over Sharia Law

Strict Islamic Sharia law is becoming the law of the land in the southeast Asian nation of Brunei.

Courts can jail citizens there for Islamic-related offenses, including not participating in Friday Muslim prayers, getting pregnant out of wedlock, and promoting other religions.

Punishments include flogging, amputation, and stoning.

The United States has expressed concerns over the new regulations. State Department spokeswoman Marie Harf said the United States is "watching how the law will be implemented," but is concerned that it may violate freedom of religion.

Hollywood groups, including the Motion Picture & Television Fund, have responded to the harsh laws by refusing to do business with U.S. hotels owned by Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah or government of Brunei.

The boycott includes the Beverly Hills Hotel where the night before the Oscars party is usually held.