By SARAH KESSINGER

Harris News Service

TOPEKA -- The Kansas Senate on Tuesday passed an economic development bill crafted to facilitate an air-quality permit for two coal-fired power plants in southwest Kansas.

Supporters backed the energy legislation, 24-10, as part of an overall economic stimulus bill, saying it would provide power for the state's future industry.

Opponents, however, refuted that, saying previous legislation containing the power plants had twice been vetoed and wouldn't get enough votes on this bill to overcome a likely third veto by Gov. Kathleen Sebelius.

The House was expected to take up the measure today.

Construction of two coal plants is sought by three utilities, including Sunflower Electric Power Corp. of Hays and rural electric cooperatives in Colorado and Texas.

The permit was rejected last year by Kansas Secretary of Health and Environment Rod Bremby because of the plants' high level of carbon dioxide emissions.

In addition to the coal-plant provisions, the bill considered Tuesday night also contains a bond issue for a large transport hub in Gardner and other stimulus provisions for corporations statewide.

Sebelius said Saturday the measure could be considered unconstitutional because of its multiple topics.

If the House passes the measure next and Sebelius vetoes it, then lawmakers still would have an opportunity to try an override May 29, the session's ceremonial last day.

While the Senate has succeeded with overwhelming majorities on their override attempts to two earlier coal bills, the House has failed in its one attempt at an override, which is required of both chambers.