AUGUSTA (AP) — A bill that seeks to force Maine Gov. Paul LePage to release voter-approved bonds to fund land conservation projects is moving forward in the Legislature.

The Democratic-controlled House gave initial approval to Republican Sen. Roger Katz’s bill with a 102-48 vote on Thursday. It has also won approval in the Senate. The bill faces further votes.

The measure would require LePage to issue voter-approved bonds, except in extraordinary circumstances.

LePage has refused to release about $11.5 million in land conservation bonds until the Legislature approves his plan to use money from increased timber harvesting to support programs that help residents reduce heating costs.

Groups supporting the projects have said that some of the funds could expire by the end of this year if they aren’t borrowed by November.