This bill seeks to amend various sections of the Nebraska Revised Statutes to prohibit discrimination based on military or veteran status in employment, public accommodations, and housing. Key amendments include the insertion of "military or veteran status" into existing anti-discrimination provisions, which previously covered categories such as race, color, sex, and disability. The bill clarifies that it is not discriminatory for clubs to limit admission or service to veterans or servicemembers on a nondiscriminatory basis and allows local agencies to seek damages on behalf of complainants under local ordinances that align with state laws. Additionally, it emphasizes the enforcement of civil rights protections and the authority of local agencies to handle discrimination complaints.

Furthermore, the bill introduces a Medical Debt Relief Program aimed at discharging medical debt for eligible residents, mandating the State Treasurer to administer the program and contract with a medical debt relief coordinator. The bill also outlines specific provisions related to employment practices, ensuring that discrimination based on military or veteran status is prohibited alongside existing protections. It establishes the powers and duties of the commission responsible for enforcing these provisions and specifies that contracts with the state must include non-discrimination clauses regarding military or veteran status. Overall, the bill aims to enhance protections for military personnel and veterans across various sectors, ensuring equal treatment in housing, employment, and public services.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 18-1724, 20-113, 20-132, 20-134, 20-139, 20-317, 20-318, 20-320, 20-321, 20-322, 20-325, 23-2525, 23-2531, 23-2541, 25-1645, 29-401, 32-221, 32-230, 39-210, 45-1056, 45-1303, 48-215, 48-628.13, 48-1125, 48-1101, 48-1104, 48-1105, 48-1106, 48-1107, 48-1108, 48-1111, 48-1113, 48-1115, 48-1117, 48-1119, 48-1122, 48-1124, 49-801, 51-211, 58-216, 58-808, 58-809, 58-810, 68-1605, 75-325, 76-1495, 81-885.24