Legislation that would facilitate the replacement of an oil pipeline in the Great Lakes is a step closer to Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder's desk.

The Republican-led House approved the bill 74-34 Tuesday. The measure could be passed by the Senate later in the day.

It would require a state authority to quickly OK the Snyder administration's deal [1] for the construction and operation of a utility tunnel in the Straits of Mackinac. The tunnel would house a replacement for a segment of Enbridge's Line 5 pipeline. The company would pay for the tunnel.

Supporters say the tunnel would protect the lakes from a spill, but opponents say Line 5 should not remain open for up to 10 years while the tunnel and replacement segment are built.