JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Missouri Senate is advancing a proposed ban on state investments in companies with operations in countries designated as state sponsors of terrorism.

Senators gave initial approval Wednesday to the legislation.

The measure is sponsored by Republican Senator Eric Schmitt of Glendale. He’s running for state treasurer, whose office oversees how state funds are invested.

The federal government considers Syria, Sudan and Iran to be state sponsors of terrorism. The Missouri treasurer’s office has a policy in place not to invest in companies with operations in those countries, and Schmitt says his bill would make that policy law.

No one spoke against the bill on the Senate floor. It needs a second vote of approval to move to the House.