A bill that would specifically protect gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgendered people from workplace discrimination was introduced in the Senate, Wednesday.

Democratic Sens. Ted Kennedy and Jeff Merkley, along with GOP Sen. Susan Collins, sponsored the Employment Non-Discrimination Act or ENDA.

They say the legislation will ensure no American is treated unfairly during or after the hiring process.

"No worker in America should be fired or denied a job based on who they are," Sen. Merkley said.  "Discrimination is wrong, period."

The Human Rights Campaign-- the nation's largest gay rights group-- has launched a national campaign in favor of the bill called "No Excuses."

The group is using the August recess to lobby lawmakers in their home districts.

In most states it is still legal to fire a person for being gay or transgendered.