DENVER (AP) – A controversial tax proposal aimed at stifling local opposition to oil and gas drilling is nearing a decision in the Colorado House.

The measure would take severance tax payments from local governments that take steps to slow or prevent oil and gas drilling.

The bill comes after state energy regulators clashed with county and municipal governments that have put moratoriums on drilling in certain areas or tried to set regulations beyond what the state requires. The two sides recently brokered an agreement to increase communication but not seek additional legislation. However, a few lawmakers have gone ahead with measures aimed at settling the question.

The Republican severance tax proposal faced a vote in a House committee Monday. A Democratic measure to limit drilling is pending in the Senate.

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