NASHVILLE (AP) - A proposal to help Tennesseans get off unemployment and find a job has passed the Senate.

The legislation, called the "Tennessee Works Act," was unanimously approved 33-0 on Wednesday. The companion bill is awaiting a vote in the House Finance Committee.

The bill creates a pilot program to provide employers with grants to pay for training expenses for recently laid-off workers or workers whose jobs have gone overseas. In order to continue receiving the grant funds, employers agree to hire a portion of the employees trained.

The sponsor of the legislation, Democratic Sen. Andy Berke of Chattanooga, says the bill is proof that Republicans and Democrats "can work together to make Tennessee an even better place to work, play and live."