Topeka ? The Kansas House on Saturday broke an impasse over paying for repairs to universities as it worked toward the final major issues of the 2007 legislative session.

After approving the $313 million, five-year plan, the House adopted a budget recommendation to send both measures to a House-Senate conference committee.

That committee made no progress – at least in open session – but will continue meeting today.

Lawmakers had returned Wednesday for the wrap-up session and hope to finish it early this week.

The House plan to pay for university repairs was immediately assailed by the Kansas Board of Regents and the Senate, which adopted a proposal about twice in cost.

The House also sent to Gov. Kathleen Sebelius legislation that exempts most health care providers from the Kansas Consumer Protection Act.

Sebelius vetoed a similar measure April 20, saying it would prevent consumers from seeking redress for wrongs and encourage other professionals to seek exemption from the Consumer Protection Act.

But supporters of the new bill said it was more narrowly drawn, allowing plaintiffs to sue health care providers under the Consumer Protection Act, except for medical negligence. Those suits would still be allowed under other laws.

The House also finished work on a bill that requires school districts to establish anti-bullying programs.

Meanwhile, the Senate was gone for the weekend, having finished all it could work on while awaiting House approval of bills.

Both chambers will reconvene Monday.