TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — The Kansas House has given first-round approval to a bill eliminating a projected shortfall of more than $330 million in the state’s current budget after members complained about some of the maneuvers for closing the gap.

The Republican-controlled House advanced the bill Tuesday on a voice vote and expects to take final action Wednesday. The measure has the backing of GOP leaders and is expected to pass.

The bill mostly diverts money from highway projects and special funds into the state’s main bank account to cover funding for general government programs.

Lawmakers from both parties criticized the bill’s diversion of $158 million in highway funds, saying roads and bridges could deteriorate.

But some lawmakers said they had little choice to ensure the state pays its bills on time.

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TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — A Republican leader in the Kansas House says a bill to eliminate a projected budget shortfall will allow the state to continue paying its bills on time.

Republican Rep. Ron Ryckman Jr. of Olathe, chairman of the House Appropriations Committee, said during a debate Tuesday that the bill would bring certainty to the state’s finances.

The measure would eliminate a projected shortfall of more than $330 million in the state’s current budget. The House is expected to give the bill first-round approval.

But Democratic Rep. Jerry Henry of Atchison said he’s worried that the measure won’t be enough with state tax collections falling short of expectations in January.

The bill would mostly divert highway funds and shift other funds around to patch holes in the funding for general government programs.

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TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Kansas House members are preparing to debate a bill for eliminating a projected shortfall of more than $330 million in the state’s current budget.

The bill up for discussion Tuesday would mostly divert highway funds and shift other funds around to patch holes in the funding for general government programs. The shortfall is in the state’s main bank account.

The state’s budget problems arose after lawmakers aggressively cut personal income taxes in 2012 and 2013 at Gov. Sam Brownback’s urging to stimulate the economy.

The current budget runs through June. Brownback’s budget director has said lawmakers need to approve adjustments by Feb. 13 to ensure the state keeps paying bills on time.

The state faces an additional $436 million budget shortfall for the next fiscal year beginning July 1.