LANSING, Mich. (AP) — The Republican-led Michigan Senate on Thursday approved several bills aimed at shoring up Michigan's unemployment benefits fund, although Democrats said one of the measures could make it harder for the jobless to get and keep their benefits.

A bill approved 23-11 along party lines would require some employers to pay unemployment taxes on a larger portion of their employees' wages. Other changes, however, would save money for employers paying into the state's unemployment insurance program.

Republican Sen. Jack Brandenburg of Macomb County's Harrison Township said the measure is part of a package aimed at creating a debt-free, more efficient system that "will encourage growth and remove hurdles for employers." Supporters say the bill will deter fraud, prevent overpayments and encourage the unemployed to seek jobs before their benefits run out.