Bill restricting unions advancing in US state Ohio

COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) — While much of the country's attention remains focused on a stalled proposal in Wisconsin to restrict collective bargaining rights for public workers, a similar measure in another Midwestern state, Ohio, is speeding toward reality.

A Senate panel and then the full chamber approved the Ohio measure Wednesday amid jeers from onlookers. The Ohio bill could go as early as next week to House committee hearings. Republicans hold a 59-40 majority in the House, where the measure is likely to receive strong support.

The Ohio measure is in some ways is tougher and broader than the one in Wisconsin. The Ohio bill would restrict the collective bargaining rights of …