The Senate has sent sweeping changes in Ohio's electric power policy to Gov. Ted Strickland, who has promised to sign it into law.
The Senate's unanimous vote Wednesday clears the way for changes that Strickland and legislators believe will protect consumers and make Ohio more attractive for business. The House approved the bill on Tuesday.
The Republicans who run the Legislature and Strickland, a Democrat, reached a compromise on the issues on Tuesday. Lawmakers got the transition to a competitive market they wanted and Strickland got a way to cut prices if regulators determine that the utility companies are making excessive earnings.