INDIANAPOLIS - Indiana Lawmakers gave final approval Wednesday to a disputed bill seeking to remove protections from Indiana's wetlands.

The measure comes amid mounting criticism that the legislation could cause damage to the state's waterways, wildlife and vegetation. The bill has sparked bipartisan opposition within the Republican-dominated Legislature.

The bill would eliminate a 2003 law requiring state regulators to issue permits for activity in wetlands areas and end enforcement proceedings against landowners allegedly violating current law.

The Indiana Senate voted Wednesday to send the bill to Governor Eric Holcomb, who earlier said it was cause for "concern."