“Although we did not win today’s battle to secure employment protections for LGBT Nebraskans, we commend the legislators who stood on the side of fairness,” said HRC Legal Director Sarah Warbelow.  “The majority of Nebraska’s lawmakers sent a clear message that the LGBT community should be protected from discrimination under the law.”

"Thousands of Nebraskans have made their voices heard in this debate,” said Chris Chapek, director of Stay Equal Nebraska. “They have called and written their state Senators in unprecedented numbers. The message is clear: the overwhelming majority of Nebraskans support updating our employment non-discrimination laws to protect LGBTQ Nebraskans. A majority of senators agree. This debate is far from over. We will not rest until all Nebraskans enjoy equal protection under the law."

LB 485 was voted out of the Nebraska Judiciary Committee last week.  Opponents of equality did everything they could to stop this critical legislation from becoming law.  Without the passage of this bill, LGBT Nebraskans will continue to lack critical protections in the workplace.

“Although we did not emerge victorious today, the change in tide is evident,” added Warbelow.  “We will continue to fight for full equality under the law in Nebraska and across the country.” 

The Human Rights Campaign is America’s largest civil rights organization working to achieve lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender equality. By inspiring and engaging all Americans, HRC strives to end discrimination against LGBT citizens and realize a nation that achieves fundamental fairness and equality for all.