LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — A measure to ban wage discrimination in small businesses has advanced in the Nebraska Legislature despite some opponents who say it would create unnecessary hurdles for entrepreneurs.

Lawmakers gave the bill first-round approval Wednesday on a 26-7 vote.

Nebraska’s Equal Pay Act already prohibits wage discrimination based on sex, but it only applies to businesses with 15 or more employees. Workers in smaller businesses must take complaints to the federal commission.

Advocates say the bill would allow all wage discrimination complaints to be handled through the state, which is less expensive and less arduous than a federal complaint.

Opponents say the bill would burden small businesses by requiring them to keep more records and hire lawyers.