(Sumter-AP) March 10, 2004 - A bill that would allow USC Sumter to start offering four-year degrees has passed the state Senate.

The controversial bill that would allow the two-year school to offer several bachelors degrees as soon as this fall cleared the House last week.

Many in Sumter say the measure is long overdue. The community has lobbied hard for the change, arguing students should not- have to travel 45 miles to the main campus in Columbia to get a degree.

But, state regulators, some USC officials and Governor Mark Sanford are giving the prospect a cool reception.

Governor Sanford's signature is required before the bill becomes law. He has spoke out against the life sciences bill. Sanford has threatened to veto the bill, saying he favors USC-Sumter cutting expenses through more cooperation with a neighboring technical college.

Updated 8:10am by Eva Pilgrim