Workplace Issues in Nebraska
Key Nebraska Law
Nebraska Revised Statutes Section 48-1104 (Nebraska Fair Employment Practice Act — NFEPA)
The Nebraska Fair Employment Practice Act prohibits employment discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, disability, marital status, pregnancy, national origin, or age (40+). It applies to employers with 15 or more employees and is administered by the Nebraska Equal Opportunity Commission (NEOC).
View official statuteProcedural Details in Nebraska
Nebraska Agencies & Resources
Nebraska Equal Opportunity Commission (NEOC)
Investigates employment discrimination complaints under NFEPA. File within 300 days of the discriminatory act.
Nebraska Department of Labor
Enforces Nebraska wage payment and labor laws. Handles wage claims and labor standards complaints.
EEOC Omaha Area Office
Handles federal employment discrimination charges for Nebraska workers.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do I have to file a discrimination complaint in Nebraska?
Under NFEPA, workers have 300 days from the date of the discriminatory act to file a complaint with the Nebraska Equal Opportunity Commission. Nebraska has a dual-filing agreement with the EEOC. After investigation, workers may request a right-to-sue notice.
What is Nebraska's minimum wage?
Nebraska voters approved a minimum wage increase in 2022. The minimum wage is $12.00 per hour as of January 2024, increasing to $13.50 in 2025 and $15.00 in 2026. Nebraska has no state paid sick leave requirement.
Does Nebraska protect sexual orientation in employment?
Nebraska's state law does not expressly protect sexual orientation or gender identity. Workers may rely on the federal Bostock v. Clayton County interpretation of Title VII's sex discrimination prohibition for federal protections. Some Nebraska cities may have local non-discrimination ordinances.
What are at-will employment exceptions in Nebraska?
Nebraska courts have recognized a narrow public policy exception when an employee is terminated for reasons that clearly violate a specific statute or constitutional provision — such as firing for filing a workers' compensation claim. Nebraska does not broadly recognize implied contract exceptions based on employee handbooks.
Related Workplace Issues Scenarios
Can I sue for wrongful termination?
Understanding when firing might be illegal and what your employment rights are.
Can I sue for unpaid wages?
Understanding your rights when an employer doesn't pay what you're owed.
Can I sue for retaliation after reporting workplace safety concerns?
Legal protection against employer retaliation for reporting safety violations or refusing unsafe work.
Can I sue for disability discrimination when employer won't accommodate?
Legal options when employers fail to provide reasonable accommodations for qualified disabilities.
Have a Specific Situation in Nebraska?
Every situation is unique. Try our educational assessment tool for guidance based on your specific circumstances.