AUSTIN, Texas -- A state Senate committee has approved legislation giving Texas school districts more leeway in dealing with lower funding during a state budget crisis.

The committee voted Thursday to allow school districts to reduce salaries as well as furlough contract personnel for up to six non-instructional days.

The bill says these options can only be used while the total Foundation School Program entitlement remains below 2010-2011 funding levels.

Texas is facing a budget shortfall that could reach $27 billion. Public education has taken the brunt of the cuts proposed by lawmakers.

School superintendents have been asking lawmakers for permission to cut employee pay and give teachers unpaid days off to absorb some of the harsh cuts.

The bill now goes to the full Senate for consideration.