Topeka ? A bill allowing Sedgwick County officials to move ahead with building a new arena in downtown Wichita is on its way to Gov. Kathleen Sebelius.

The House approved the measure Tuesday on a 97-26 vote. The Senate approved the bill last month, 32-8.

In November, county voters approved a 1 percent sales tax to finance the new arena. The project is expected to cost $180 million.

The bill ratifies the county vote, allowing the tax to be imposed July 1 and to remain in effect through 2007.

Sebelius will study the legislation carefully when it reaches her desk, spokeswoman Nicole Corcoran said.

But Corcoran added, “Generally, she is supportive of an issue when a community has voted on it.”