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It wasn't exactly a vote on the bill that would give protections to LGBTQ workers, but it was a vote that ended debate and the bill's chances of passing this session.

The bill (LB627) that would ensure workers couldn't be fired or discriminated against because of their sexual orientation or gender identity will be put aside for the rest of the session, unless its sponsor, Lincoln Sen. Patty Pansing Brooks, can find enough votes — 33 — to break a filibuster.

She'd have to find at least eight or nine more senators to support the bill that would make LGBTQ discrimination unlawful for an employer with 15 or more employees, employers with state contracts regardless of the number of employees, the State of Nebraska, government agencies and political subdivisions.

And Pansing Brooks said she doesn't have those votes.

"But weren't there great voices out there speaking, so much stronger than even the previous times we've heard it?" she said of the debate. "I hope that people feel strengthened and hopeful about the change that has occurred on this floor.

"It gives me such courage. And people like me will get older and shuffle off, and the strong, loving, kind, compassionate voices will end up ruling the day."