NASHVILLE (AP) — A proposal that would allow Tennessee to join an interstate compact challenging the federal health care law is advancing in the House.

The measure sponsored by Republican Rep. Mark Pody of Lebanon was approved 8-3 in the House Finance Subcommittee on Monday. The companion bill passed the Senate 22-9 last year.

The legislation would provide a waiver for each participating state to create its own health care system. Sponsors say the proposal is intended to give Tennesseans more choices concerning health care.

Opponents fear the compact, which has to be approved by Congress, could eventually lead to the abolishment of Medicare.