COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) — A bill that would allow a state watchdog agency to review South Carolina’s electric cooperatives for the first time is heading to the House floor.

The proposal would allow the Office of Regulatory Staff to audit a co-op and let them know if they were spending their money properly and following state law. Regulators couldn’t change rates.

The bill was approved by a House Committee on Wednesday.

Rep. Wendy Brawley told The State newspaper she will oppose the bill. The Democrat from Hopkins says statewide legislation isn’t the best solution and local co-ops can solve their own problems.

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Bill sponsor Democratic Rep. Russell Ott of St. Matthews says the bill just makes sure a watchdog has the co-op’s backs.

The bill was prompted by excessive spending by Tri-County Electric.

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Information from: The State, http://www.thestate.com