TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) _ The Kansas House has approved a bill restricting political fundraising by public employee unions.
The House vote Thursday was 68-56 and sends the measure to the Senate.
The bill would bar groups that represent teachers and government workers from automatically deducting money from members' paychecks to finance political activities.
Supporters contend the measure would prevent employees from being forced to finance political causes they don't support.
Critics say the measure is designed by business groups and their Republican allies to hinder fundraising by public employee groups to lessen their political influence.
Similar legislation cleared the House in 2011 but died in the Senate. Its chances of success are considered higher this year, with conservative Republicans who back the measure now in control of both chambers.
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