PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) — A proposal to create a state inspector general for Rhode Island's state government got a lengthy public debate in the House of Representatives, even if the Republican-led plan had little chance of passing.

The Providence Journal reports (http://bit.ly/2sz9xn2 ) that House Democrats on Thursday night beat back the GOP attempt to divert $4 million in so-called "911 fees" to create an office of Inspector General.

The debate happened as part of broader deliberations over a $9.2 billion state budget plan approved by the Democratic-controlled House on Thursday night.

Rep. Robert Lancia, a Cranston Republican, argued Rhode Island badly needs the office to root out waste and fraud.

Deputy Speaker Charlene Lima, a Cranston Democrat, said it would be dangerous to divert the emergency services money.

The budget now awaits Senate approval.