LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska senators have halted debate on a bill banning discrimination against gay and lesbian employees after a test vote showed wavering support.

After more than four hours of debate Thursday, bill sponsor Sen. Adam Morfeld of Lincoln asked that the measure be put off until next year.

The bill would require 25 votes to advance. Senators voted 20-12 on the test vote. Sixteen senators were present but not voting.

Morfeld says holding the bill will give him time to gain more support.

Both Lincoln and Omaha Chambers of Commerce backed the bill. Twenty other states have similar laws.