TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — A Senate committee has recommended passage of a bill sought by the Kansas Republican Party that would make it more difficult for voters to switch parties before voting in primary elections.

The Ethics and Election Committee advanced the bill Thursday to the full Senate on voice vote.

Supporters testified Wednesday in favor of the bill, which would prevent registered voters from changing their party affiliations from June 1 through Sept. 1. Voters can currently change their party affiliation up to 21 days before the August primaries. Unaffiliated voters can pick a party at any time.

Critics of the bill say it would suppress the rights of voters to participate in the elections in the way they choose.