DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) – The Republican-controlled Iowa House has approved a bill that would change the arbitration process for teachers and other school employees in the state. Under the proposal, which passed in a 56-41 vote Wednesday, an arbitrator would have more flexibility in determining final contract terms. Debate over the bill started Tuesday afternoon and concluded Wednesday morning, after an overnight break.

Currently, if a district cannot reach a labor agreement with teachers or school employees, an arbitrator must choose between two final offers on items like raises. The bill would allow the arbitrator to set a number in the middle.  Republicans say the change would help districts manage their budgets, while Democrats say it would worsen teacher compensation and educational attainment.

The bill is not expected to advance in the Democratic-majority Senate.