Topeka ? The Kansas Senate has approved a bill designed to speed up court proceedings by allowing Sedgwick and Johnson county forensic examiners to submit their findings in writing, rather than testify in court.

Supporters of the bill say requiring the examiners to testify in court takes them away from their investigations. And, supporters say, the testimony is often long and redundant.

Investigative technicians from the Kansas Highway Patrol and the Kansas Bureau of Investigation already were allowed to submit written findings.

The Wichita Eagle reported Thursday that Sen. Tim Owens, a Republican from Overland Park, says lawyers would still be able to compel the examiners to testify in court if they thought it was necessary.

The House had already approved the bill, so it is awaiting Gov. Sam Brownback’s decision.