COLUMBIA, S.C. - The House on Wednesday approved the creation of a new statewide school district that would oversee charter schools.

The measure, which was approved 66-45, would allow the special schools to choose to be sponsored by the new state district, which would be handled by the governor's office.

It was a political victory for Gov. Mark Sanford shortly before the Republican was to give his State of the State address in the same chamber.

"It's a good sign the House is taking a major step forward in extending choice to parents," said spokesman Will Folks.

The lengthy debate revealed the first signs of the contention building over Sanford's proposal to give parents more school choice.

Democrats argued the legislation would lead schools back to segregation.

"We are turning the clock back," Rep. David Mack, D-Charleston. "This state has never been committed to educating everybody in this state."

"Please change this attitude," said Rep. Lonnie Hosey, D-Barnwell.

Charter schools are independent public schools that often target specific students, ranging from the disabled to the academically gifted. They are often started by parents, community leaders and educational entrepreneurs.

Rep. Joe Neal, D-Hopkins, said charter schools take resources away from public schools.

"Many of our children are not getting what they deserve," Neal said.

Republicans said those who opposed the bill were stirring up fear.

Rep. Bob Walker, R-Landrum, said the education dollars follow the child. That means a public school would not get the money if a child attends a charter school.

"They don't get the money but they don't need the money. They don't have that child," Walker said.

Under this measure, a charter school sponsored by the state district would get the share of state and federal money for each student that enrolls, Walker said. If it has the support of the local district, it also would get local money.

The legislation still needs a third reading before it heads to the Senate.