PIERRE, S.D.(WNAX)- The South Dakota Senate Education Committee approved some changes to the “Partners in Education” tuition program, but with some dissenting debate.

The program uses dollars the state receives from insurance companies as tuition for students to attend private or parochial schools.

The bill would increase the funding to three point five million dollars. Senator Lee Schoenbeck of Watertown sponsored the bill.

Wade Pogany, Executive Director of the Associated School Boards questioned where the need is coming from.

Senator Jim Bolin of Canton says it helps expand educational opportunities.

The bill passed out of the committee on a six to one vote.