The Kansas Senate has narrowly approved Gov. Sam Brownback’s plan to abolish an economic development agency that nurtures new high-tech businesses.

Wednesday’s vote was 21-11, the bare minimum to pass the 40-member chamber and go to the House. Two senators were absent and six abstained.

The bill transfers the duties of Kansas Technology Enterprise Corp. into the state Department of Commerce — a move that Brownback estimates will save $1.7 million a year.

Proponents point out the state created KTEC in the 1980s. They say Kansas no longer has a need for such an independent agency.

Critics of the measure question whether the Commerce Department has the expertise to help high-tech businesses.