COLUMBIA, S.C. -State agencies would be barred from using public money to hire lobbyists under a bill approved in the House on Wednesday.

Instead, an agency could use one of its employees to lobby on the its behalf.

But some representatives argued they like to have someone to talk with about issues at state agencies.

"I have no problem with an agency presenting information to me," said Rep. Jim Harrison, R-Columbia, who opposed the bill.

The bill does not apply to foundations established by institutes of higher education.

The bill needs a standard third reading before it goes to the Senate.