LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) -
Nebraska lawmakers are preparing to hear three bills that would expand gay rights in the Cornhusker state.
The Legislature's Judiciary Committee will hear testimony Thursday on legislation that would stop discrimination against gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender employees, and extend rights to people seeking to adopt or provide foster care to a child.
Lincoln Sen. Danielle Conrad introduced a bill that would prevent businesses from discriminating against current or prospective employees based on their sexual orientation or marital status. Religious groups would not have to comply with the bill. Omaha Sen. Ernie Chambers introduced a similar bill in 2007, but lawmakers failed to pass the measure.
The other bills would allow gay couples to adopt a child or become foster parents.