AUGUSTA, Maine (AP) A bill that aims to replace Central Maine Power and Versant Power with a consumer-owned utility has been watered down before being forwarded to the full Legislature.

The Legislature’s Energy, Utilities and Technology Committee voted 8-1 to send the proposal to the Legislature for consideration. Four committee members did not vote.

The amendment would create a task force responsible for creating a business plan and conducting further studies of the costs and benefits of putting Maine’s largest utilities under public ownership.

It’s unclear if the amended bill will be considered by the full Legislature since there’s no agreement for lawmakers to return for a special session.