Supporters say sexual orientation bill is workforce issue

It was the third time Lincoln Sen. Adam Morfeld had introduced a bill that would protect employees who are gay or transgender from discrimination.

"This is not uncharted water, both within our legal system and in our largest city," Morfeld said.

The bill (LB173) relates only to employment, he said, and would prohibit discrimination based upon sexual orientation and gender identity by employers with 15 or more workers or with state contracts. It also covers employment agencies and labor organizations.

Both the mayors and chambers of commerce of Lincoln and Omaha support the bill, Morfeld told the Legislature's Judiciary Committee.

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