A bill that would let Nebraska cities offer "relocation incentives" with voter approval has cleared a first-round vote in the Legislature.

Lawmakers voted 31-0 on Friday to advance the measure.

The proposal by Sen. Kate Sullivan of Cedar Rapids would give cities the option to create incentive programs at their own expense to attract high-demand workers. The bill would apply to cities that allow a local-option sales tax for economic development projects.

Sullivan says the incentive programs would require support from a city council or village board. Voters would also have to approve the projects, and could end the programs if they desired through a referendum.

Several Nebraska cities have expressed interest in adopting a relocation incentive program.