COLUMBUS, OHIO (AP) -- The Ohio House has approved Republican Gov. John Kasich's proposal to raise around $1.5 billion for state highway projects through Ohio Turnpike bonds.
Representatives approved the plan on a 58-36 vote Thursday.
The bill's passage comes a day after Democrats unsuccessfully offered a series of amendments in a committee hearing. They wanted Kasich's pledges in writing to freeze tolls for short-range trips and to spend 90 percent of the deal's proceeds in northern Ohio.
The administration has said it will deliver on the promises, but placing precise spending targets in the law would limit flexibility.
The bill's supporters say a GOP amendment added Thursday would make clear the Legislature's intent. But opponents said they wanted stronger reassurances.
The legislation goes to the Ohio Senate, which has started hearings.
(Copyright ©2013 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)
TV Station Profiles & Public Inspection Files forWNWO