MADISON, Wis. -- State senators want to have the final say on who will be the secretary of the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources.

The Senate passed a bill Thursday that will give the Natural Resources Board, and not the governor, the power to appoint the secretary. The Senate would then have to confirm the choice.

Supporters say the move would take politics out of conservation decisions. Critics point out the governor still appoints the board.

The Assembly passed the bill in September. The Senate approved an amendment Wednesday that would allow the board to nominate a secretary. That person would need Senate confirmation.

The change means the bill must go back to the Assembly for approval.

Gov. Jim Doyle has said he doesn't support board appointment.