The Associated Press • February 9, 2010

A divided Mississippi Senate has passed a bill that would allow the widespread use of charter schools in the state.

The proposal is not expected to fare well in the House, where similar proposals have already died.

Charter schools would be paid by tax dollars but would be free of some regulations that other public schools follow.

Twenty-nine senators voted for the bill Tuesday and 14 voted against it.

Republican Sen. Michael Watson of Pascagoula says charter schools would improve academic performance.

Democratic Sen. David Jordan of Greenwood says the schools would represent a return to racial segregation.

State education officials say there are no charter schools in the state now.

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