Kansas legislators are close to passing a bill to strip cities and counties of their power to regulate firearms.

The Senate passed the final version of the measure on a 37-2 vote Friday night. House approval would send the measure to Gov. Sam Brownback.

The measure would prevent cities and counties from regulating firearm sales or how guns are stored or transported. It would ensure that gun owners could openly carry firearms across the state, though local officials still could prohibit open carrying in public buildings.

The bill also would void existing local gun ordinances.

The National Rifle Association considers the bill a model for states seeking to pre-empt local rules. Supporters say a patchwork of local regulations confuses gun owners.

Critics say local officials know their communities best.