NASHVILLE (AP) — The state Senate is scheduled to take up a measure on Monday that seeks to change the way Tennessee's attorney general gains office.

Under a proposed constitutional amendment, the attorney general would stand for popular election rather than being appointed by the state Supreme Court.

Critics say making the attorney general an elected position would require them to seek heavy campaign contributions and threaten the nonpartisan and independent nature of the office.

They also question the need for the resolution when the full chamber voted 22-9 last year in favor of a proposal to have the attorney general appointed by a joint convention of the General Assembly.

The current system has withstood legal challenges, but opponents argue it conflicts with language in the state constitution that says justices "shall be elected by the qualified voters of the state."