TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — A Kansas Senate committee has approved a bill that could shrink the state’s civil service system and lessen job protections for government employees.

The Commerce Committee’s endorsement of the measure Tuesday sent it to the Senate for debate. The House passed the bill last week.

The proposal comes from Republican Gov. Sam Brownback and would allow state agencies to remove jobs from the civil service when filling vacancies or when employees accept promotions or transfers.

Supporters contend state agencies would operate more like private businesses and have more flexibility in rewarding employees who perform well.

Public employee groups say the bill would lessen protections from arbitrary firings and demotions.

The Senate committee’s vote was part of a busy day for lawmakers that included budget negotiations between the two chambers.