NBC tries to reassure gay and lesbian workers they'll protect safety in Sochi

NEW YORK – NBC is assuring its gay and lesbian employees who may cover the Winter Olympics in Sochi that it will do everything possible to keep them safe following Russia's passage of an anti-gay law.

The network sent a memo to employees who have identified themselves as gay and lesbian that it finds Russia's new law deeply troubling. The law, signed by President Vladimir Putin in June, bans "propaganda of nontraditional sexual relations" and promises fines against gay pride rallies.

NBC and its networks are sending hundreds of employees to Russia this winter to work on the games.