SALEM, Ore. (AP) _ The Oregon Senate has approved a bill allowing some women convicted of misdemeanor prostitution to be eligible for a state teaching license.

Supporter Sen. Margaret Carter, a Portland Democrat, invoked the gospel of redemption and forgiveness, and the sins of judgment.

Carter had pushed a similar bill last session but withdrew it when it appeared it would not pass the then-Republican-run House. Some Democrats had problems with it as well.

Decisions would be made on a case-by-case basis by the Oregon Teacher Standards and Practices Commission.

The conviction would have to be at least five years old for a woman to be considered for a teaching license or other work in a school.

Similar laws exist in California, Washington, Idaho and Nevada.

The bill goes to the House.