The Arkansas House has approved a proposal to remove the governor's emergency power to regulate guns during a disaster.

The House approved the bill on a 78-9 vote Tuesday. The governor currently has the authority during a disaster or emergency to suspend or limit the sale, distribution and transportation of firearms. The governor also has enhanced powers to regulate alcohol, explosives, and combustibles.

Proponents of the measure say it's needed to protect the Second Amendment. Opponents said they didn't want to impede the governor's ability to adequately lead the state's response to a catastrophe.

The bill now heads to the Senate.

A spokesman for Gov. Mike Beebe has said the governor is reviewing the measure, but noted the governor has never exercised the power during his six years in office.