AUGUSTA, Maine (AP) The Maine Senate is backing a bill to allow retail marijuana sales approved by voters in 2016.

The Senate’s 24-10 vote Wednesday signals strong initial support in both chambers. Republican Gov. Paul LePage has said Maine shouldn’t legalize pot while it remains illegal at the federal level.

The bill faces more action in both chambers before heading to LePage’s desk. Lawmakers would need similar strong support to override a veto.

Supporters say the bill provides needed changes to the voter-approved marijuana law to protect children.

Some pro-marijuana activists criticized the bill for laying out a new excise tax and cutting the number of plants a person can grow for personal use.