LANSING (AP) -- The Michigan Senate has passed a four-year limit for families receiving welfare benefits.
The Detroit News reports the measure passed 24-12 Wednesday with Democrats opposing it.
Welfare limits legislation already has been approved by the state House. It now goes to Republican Gov. Rick Snyder for his signature before becoming law.
Critics say the limits would boot some needy families off public assistance.
About 12,600 families would be removed from welfare rolls by Oct. 1, saving the state more than $77 million. The legislation reflects welfare limits approved earlier this year as part of the state budget plan.
Michigan's current law has a similar time limit but it has more exceptions than the revised plan. The current law is due to expire in late September.
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