LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska zoos and aquariums would be exempt from state and local sales tax under a bill that cleared first-round vote in the Legislature.

Senators voted 33-5 Tuesday to advance a measure that would allow nationally accredited zoos or aquariums to avoid charging sales taxes on memberships and admissions. The zoo would keep the percentage usually allotted to the state.

Advocates say the bill encourages economic activity from Nebraska’s nationally recognized tourist attractions, but opponents worried the 2.67 million dollar exemption makes it harder for lawmakers to deliver property tax relief.

The exemption would apply to three accredited facilities: Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo, the Lincoln Children’s Zoo and the Riverside Discovery Center in Scottsbluff.