LANSING (AP) -- A proposal to use $208 million from Michigan's school aid fund to help pay for other programs is advancing in the state Legislature.

The Democratic-led Michigan House passed the measure to use part of the state's school aid surplus to help cover a general fund shortfall by a 57-47 vote Wednesday, mostly along party lines.

The measure now goes to the Republican-run Senate.

The proposal to shift funds picked up more support this month after it was learned Michigan is getting more than $300 million in unexpected additional federal schools aid.

Lawmakers and Gov. Jennifer Granholm are trying to erase a general fund deficit of $302 million this fiscal year and a shortfall of $484 million for the year that begins Oct. 1.

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