Despite a barrage of criticism, a House panel has approved a measure that would allow a business to block enforcement of a local ordinance by filing a lawsuit.

The House Civil Justice and Property Rights Subcommittee voted 12-6 on February 16 to approve HB 403 by Rep. Mike Giallombardo, R-Cape Coral.

Giallombardo said the measure would create an orderly process for businesses to challenge local regulation and discourage a growing demand in Tallahassee for local preemption bills.