DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) – Lawmakers in the Iowa Senate have approved a measure aimed at establishing more anti-bullying efforts in schools across the state. The Democratic-majority Senate narrowly cleared the bill Tuesday in a straight party-line vote, 26-19. The legislation now goes to the Republican-controlled House, where lawmakers are wrangling with a similar measure.

The bill is meant to help schools better address bullying. But Sen. David Johnson, a Republican from Ocheyedan, says the proposal falls short in its effort to ensure student safety. Sen. Robert Hogg, a Democrat from Cedar Rapids who sponsored the bill, argues Republicans are neglecting to consider the well-being of children by refusing their support of the measure.

Cracking down on bullying has been a priority for Gov. Terry Branstad this session.